Evans Kiratu Karobia

Evans Kiratu Karobia — Protest Victim, Nairobi 2024

Background

• Name: Evans Kiratu Karobia
• Age: 21 (plumbing trainee from Kiambu on placement in Nairobi)
• Location: Nairobi CBD — protest area between Haile Selassie Avenue and Tom Mboya Street

Incident — Death During Anti-Finance Bill Protests

On **20 June 2024**, Evans Kiratu was struck in the groin by a tear gas canister fired by police during youth-led protests in Nairobi. He was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital with severe internal injuries, where he later died.

His father, Karobia Kiratu, and other family members—who later initiated human rights documentation efforts—reported that he was hit by both a tear gas canister and rubber bullet.

Aftermath & Inquest

A public inquest was opened by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), citing blunt force trauma and absent eyewitnesses.

Efforts are ongoing to gather witness statements; family and human rights organizations continue calls for accountability and official acknowledgment.

Memorial & Public Response

Evans Kiratu was buried on **28 June 2024** in Kiambu County. His family demanded an apology and compensation from President William Ruto.

His death became symbolic of broader demands for justice for protest casualties, alongside fundraiser campaigns rallying public support.

Summary Table

Attribute	Details
Name	Evans Kiratu Karobia
Age	21
Date of Incident	20 June 2024
Location	Nairobi CBD (Haile Selassie & Tom Mboya Streets)
Cause of Death	Tear gas canister and rubber bullet injuries; blunt force trauma
Inquest Status	Public inquest opened; ODPP investigation ongoing
Burial & Family Request	Buried 28 June 2024 in Kiambu; family demands public apology and compensation