Journalists injured, dozens robbed at Madaraka Day festivities in Homa Bay
The chaos also affected several attendees, many of whom were left counting losses after suspected thugs—some said to have travelled from as far as Kisumu.
At least four journalists sustained injuries and dozens of others lost personal belongings after police officers and hired goons reportedly attacked members of the media covering the ongoing Madaraka Day celebrations in Homa Bay.
The chaos also affected several attendees, many of whom were left counting losses after suspected thugs—some said to have travelled from as far as Kisumu, descended on Raila Odinga Stadium, snatching mobile phones and cash from unsuspecting revelers.
Two Standard Group journalists as well as an NTV journalist,t were targeted by police officers and assaulted.
TV producers Steve Okedi of KTN and Marble Achieng of NTV, along with Royal Media Services journalist Ephantus Maina, were injured on their legs after being assaulted by security officers.
Despite carrying valid media accreditation, the journalists were still attacked. "We showed them our badges, but they went after us anyway. They shoved us and began beating us with batons—that's how I got hurt," Achieng recounted.
In the chaos, NTV’s George Odiwuor also fell victim to theft. He lost his laptop to opportunistic goons, while another journalist had their phone stolen amid the commotion.
Kisumu Journalists Network Interim Chairman Rushdie Oudia strongly condemned the attack on journalists, calling it a blatant assault on press freedom.
"We are deeply concerned and shocked by this incident, particularly by the reckless and brazen conduct of police officers—individuals entrusted with the duty to protect lives and property," Oudia stated.
