Busia Town was thrown into turmoil after anti-fuel price protests turned deadly, with police accused of fatally shooting a staff member attached to ODM acting Secretary General and Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo.
The deceased, identified as Frederick Odiwuor, popularly known as “Papa,” reportedly died during violent confrontations between protesters and police officers as demonstrations intensified across the town over rising fuel prices.
According to eyewitnesses, tensions escalated after angry youths stormed Busia Police Station following an earlier shooting incident involving another resident. The situation quickly spiraled into chaos as police attempted to disperse the crowds.
Residents alleged that officers opened fire using live bullets as protesters advanced toward the station. Witnesses claimed Odiwuor had initially been caught in the confusion before being struck by a second bullet from behind.
“He was trying to move away when the bullet hit him near the chest close to the heart,” one witness claimed.
Videos and photos circulating online showed panicked residents running through streets as gunshots rang out during the confrontation. Businesses in parts of Busia Town were forced to shut down as fear spread among traders and motorists.
The demonstrations were part of a wider wave of protests witnessed in several parts of Kenya following recent increases in fuel prices that have triggered sharp rises in transport costs and the prices of basic commodities.
Leaders allied to the opposition condemned the shooting, accusing security officers of using excessive force against civilians during public demonstrations.
Speaking after confirming Odiwuor’s death, Catherine Omanyo called for immediate investigations into the incident and demanded accountability from the officers involved.
“This death cannot be ignored. We want justice for Papa and answers from those responsible,” she said.
Residents in Busia described Odiwuor as a well-known community mobiliser and youth figure who had worked closely with local political leaders for several years.
Human rights activists have also raised concerns over the handling of the protests, warning against the continued use of live ammunition during demonstrations.
The National Police Service had not issued a detailed statement on the shooting by the time of publication, although investigations into the unrest are expected to begin.
Meanwhile, tension remains high in Busia as residents continue demanding justice for the slain staffer while calling for calm amid fears of further clashes.