Emmanuel Gigs
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Emmanuel Tata, commonly known as Giggs, (c. 2004 – 25 June 2024) was a Kenyan university student who died in Mombasa during protests against the Finance Bill 2024. He became one of the early casualties of the nationwide Gen Z-led demonstrations.
Background
Emmanuel was a student at Meru National Polytechnic studying Science Laboratory Technology. He was widely known by his nickname, "Giggs", and was regarded by family and friends as responsible and committed to his education.
Circumstances of Death
On **25 June 2024**, during a peaceful protest at Mwembe Tayari in Mombasa, Emmanuel reportedly inhaled large amounts of tear gas fired by police to disperse demonstrators. Witnesses say he began to struggle with breathing and collapsed at the scene. He later died in hospital due to respiratory complications. His death was among the first confirmed fatalities of the protests.
According to his cousin, **Samson Mwasa Nzamba**, Giggs had been unable to walk or breathe due to the effects of the tear gas.
Family and Public Reaction
Emmanuel’s father, **Paul Tata**, told reporters that he was called to the hospital only to find his son already deceased. The family was devastated, with many questioning why excessive force was used on unarmed youth.
His death prompted local and international outrage, with calls for accountability directed at law enforcement agencies. Human rights groups, including **Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI)** and **Haki Africa**, demanded investigations into the circumstances of his death.
Legal and Advocacy Response
The case was reported to the **Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA)**. Rights groups have petitioned for an official autopsy, release of medical records, and prosecution of responsible officers. Emmanuel’s name now features prominently among those remembered as victims of state violence during the protests.