A young protester has sustained severe injuries to his hand during the ongoing Gen Z-led demonstrations in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) after a tear gas canister exploded in his grasp.
According to videos and eyewitness accounts reviewed by Kwetucollections.co.ke, the injured protester was seen bleeding profusely from his left hand as he was assisted by a fellow demonstrator, who tried to control the bleeding with a cloth before the victim was rushed away on a motorcycle to seek urgent medical care.
Attempt to “Return” Canister Backfires
Eyewitnesses say the young man picked up a tear gas canister, intending to throw it back at police officers—a risky move that has become common in recent protests and is colloquially known as “returning officers.”
However, the canister reportedly exploded in his hand before he could release it, causing a gruesome injury that may require surgical intervention or even amputation.
Medics Issue Stern Warning Against Handling Tear Gas Devices
Just hours earlier, Dr. Austin Omondi, founder of Medics for Kenya, issued a public safety advisory warning protesters against handling tear gas canisters under any circumstances.
“Do not handle tear gas canisters by trying to throw them back at police,” Dr. Omondi warned in a June 25 post on social media.
“They will only explode in your hands, leading to possible amputation. Be peaceful and unarmed even as you exercise your constitutional rights.”
Dr. Omondi’s warning draws from prior incidents, including a 2024 case during last year’s protests when a police officer lost both hands after a tear gas canister detonated prematurely in his grip.
What Makes Tear Gas Dangerous?
Despite its name, tear gas is not actually a gas—it’s a fine aerosol of solid chemical particles, typically dispersed via a pyrotechnic explosion inside a metal canister.
The device works by:
- Detonating a small internal charge
- Expelling irritants like CS gas or CN gas
- Affecting eyes, respiratory system, and skin
If mishandled, these canisters can:
- Cause severe burns, lacerations, and shrapnel wounds
- Trigger chemical burns if skin contact is prolonged
- Lead to traumatic amputations if they explode in-hand
A Growing Protest Risk
The June 25 demonstrations mark the first anniversary of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests, where over 60 Gen Z protesters were killed, many reportedly through police action.
As today’s protests draw thousands to the streets of Nairobi and other major towns, medical professionals and human rights groups continue to urge restraint, peaceful protest, and strict adherence to safety measures.
Key Safety Advice for Protesters:
- Do NOT pick up or throw tear gas canisters
- Move away from tear gas clouds quickly
- Cover your face with a damp cloth or mask
- Seek immediate medical help if exposed or injured
Follow kwetucollections.co.ke for live updates, health advisories, and full coverage of the Gen Z protests.