A horrifying scene gripped Kitengela Hospital on Monday evening after armed goons violently invaded the facility during a critical surgical procedure, sending panic through the wards and leaving a mother and her newborn in immediate danger.

The gang stormed the operating theatre in the middle of a caesarean section, destroying equipment and forcing medical staff to flee for safety.

As fear spread through the compound, the attackers lit a fire at the hospital’s entrance while stunned residents watched in disbelief. Some could be heard shouting, “Mnafanya nini?”, demanding to know why the group had targeted the hospital.

The Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS) reacted with outrage, condemning what it termed a dangerous and unlawful act against a space meant to protect life.

“Of particular concern is the terrifying disruption of the hospital’s operating theatre while a mother was undergoing a caesarean section, a moment that should be safeguarded by the highest standard of medical protection and dignity,” said KOGS president Dr Kireki Omanwa.

He said the lives of both the mother and her baby were put at risk, while traumatised healthcare workers were blocked from doing their jobs. “This violation of a critical healthcare facility, an institution of healing and safety, is both reckless and inhumane,” he said.

“This action constitutes a grave breach of medical ethics, patient rights, and human decency.”

Dr Omanwa also raised concern over the broader police response to the Saba Saba protests, accusing security agencies of putting the health of vulnerable groups in danger through harsh restrictions.

“Roadblocks, arbitrary curfews, tear gas, and violent crackdowns have restricted movement, making it nearly impossible for many women in labor and critically ill children to access timely healthcare,” he said.

He warned that these actions directly violate Article 43(1)(a) of the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees the right to the highest attainable standard of health, including reproductive care.

Outside the hospital, tension remained high as fresh details emerged about the wider chaos in Kitengela. One person, identified as 21-year-old Brian Kimutai, was shot and killed during the protests.

He was a well-known bodaboda rider in the town and was rushed to Kitengela Level 4 Hospital, where his death was confirmed by a senior nurse.

Four other people were admitted at the same hospital with gunshot wounds, while more—including some police officers—were being treated for injuries sustained during the violent demonstrations.