Kenyatta National Hospital has confirmed receiving 16 patients injured during Tuesday’s protests in Nairobi, including Boniface Kariuki, a mask vendor who was shot in the head and remains in critical condition.

According to Benson Sigilai, who spoke on behalf of the hospital’s CEO, Evanson Kamuri, the victims sustained injuries ranging from gunshot wounds to blunt trauma.

“The injuries ranged from gunshot wounds to blunt trauma. Of these, 7 patients were admitted for further management, 9 were treated and discharged, two have undergone surgery, and 4 more are scheduled for surgical procedures today,” he said.

“One other patient remains unidentified, having sustained a skull fracture reportedly from an assault,” he added.

Kariuki was shot on the left side of his head while selling masks during the anti-police brutality protests that erupted following the death of teacher Albert Ojwang in police custody.

“He had a wound on the left side of his head, resulting in bleeding and evidence of severe injury,” said Sigilai.

He said the hospital’s emergency team, led by Dr Janet Sugut, stabilised Kariuki and placed him on life support. A CT scan confirmed that a bullet had struck the left side of his head.

“The patient was then prepared for emergency surgery. At around 8:50 p.m., a multidisciplinary team led by neurosurgeon Dr. Sam Njiru conducted a complex operation that lasted about two hours,” Sigilai said.

“During the procedure, an object believed to be a bullet was removed. The patient was later transferred to the Intensive Care Unit, where he is being cared for.”

KNH said Kariuki remains in a critical state and is under close monitoring by a dedicated team of medical professionals.