Girl, 15, shot during anti-government protests in Nyandarua

Mary Wanjiku. She was shot in the leg while walking home. [James Munyeki, Standard]

A 15-year-old student was allegedly shot by police during anti-government protests in Nyahururu town on Tuesday evening.

Mary Wanjiku, a student at St Luis Secondary School, was walking home when she was caught up in the chaos as police dispersed protesters near the main market.

Wanjiku's father, Paul Kariuki, said Good Samaritans rushed her to Nyahururu County Hospital, where she was treated and discharged.

"I was informed that my daughter had been shot during the protests, and I rushed to the hospital. That was where I found her being treated. She has six stitches on her leg," he said.

Kariuki has demanded justice for her daughter.

"It is sad that this has happened to my daughter. I demand that whoever did this faces prosecution," he said.

Igwamiti ward MCA Irene Wachuka also called for justice for the minor. "This is an injustice for the young child. Police must be held responsible," she said.

Nyahururu Police Commander Beatrice Gacheri said that the matter was under investigation.

"We are aware of the incident at the investigation stage. Sadly, the incident happened," she said.