Three injured after shots fired at Governor Nassir function in Mombasa

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Three people were injured after bodyguards attached to Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir allegedly opened fire during a public function at Bomu Stadium in Changamwe, Mombasa County, on Friday afternoon.

The incident occurred during a public forum for the Mombasa County Revolving Fund’s “Biashara Mtaani” initiative, targeting residents of Changamwe and Jomvu sub-counties.

Mombasa County Police Commander Stella Cherono said police were investigating the incident and urged all those with information to record statements.

“We are investigating a case where three people were shot and injured at Bomu Stadium. We are asking all interested parties to record statements as investigations continue,” Ms Cherono said.

She said the three youths sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to a nearby health facility, before some were referred to Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital for further treatment.

According to witnesses, a group of youths moved towards the governor while chanting Wantam (a corruption of ‘One Term’), prompting his security detail to intervene and fire several shots.

An official who attended the function said police officers collected several spent cartridges from the scene.

“The police moved in and collected a number of used cartridges. One of the youths was shot three times in the leg and was rushed to a nearby hospital before being referred to Coast General Hospital,” the official said.

Human rights activist Francis Auma condemned the incident, calling for investigations into the alleged use of firearms against civilians.

“Public gatherings and political activity must not result in bloodshed,” Mr Auma said.

He called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate and establish who fired the shots, while urging police to secure evidence and protect witnesses.

Mr Auma also called on the county government to cater for the medical expenses of the injured and ensure accountability.

Police said investigations were ongoing to establish what triggered the shooting and identify those responsible.

Locals blamed Governor Nassir, who continued with the function despite the incident, after more police officers were called in to reinforce his security detail.

Reporting originally appeared via Nation Africa. Read the full source for additional context.