Man dies after learning police shot, killed grandson

Youth during Saba Saba protest in Kangemi, Nairobi, on July 7, 2025. [Benard Orwongo, Standard]

A family in Kakamega County has suffered double tragedy after 79-year-old Henry Opanga, collapsed and died after receiving news that his grandson was shot dead by police.

Ian Sabatia, 17 was killed during protests in Ongata Rongai, Nairobi County, on June 25. He was laid to rest on July 11, and the family has now begun preparations to bury Opanga in Buloma village, Mumias East Sub-County.

Sabatia's aunt, Fatuma Makokha, who lived with him, said he had gone to the shop to buy nappies for her disabled baby when he met his death. "I sent him to the shop at around 4pm. He never returned," she said, adding she had been caring for him since 2022.

His father, Jackson Juma Opango, said his son's death had left him speechless. "Why didn't they spare my son? He was my only hope after his mother left with her sister. I watched families cry after their children were killed, but never thought it would happen to me. It's very painful," he said.

Jackson also revealed that his own father, aged 79, died from what he believes was a fatal heart attack caused by shock and grief after hearing about Sabatia's death. "My father couldn't handle the pain. Sabatia was his hope, his future, and very cheerful. When we told him, he just went quiet and collapsed," Jackson said tearfully.

Jackson said he had joined his son in Rongai just a month earlier, seeking better opportunities. "On that day, I left early for work. When I returned, he wasn't home. I was told he'd gone to the shop, then later I learnt of his death," he said, adding that he was harassed by police while searching for his son in hospitals.

The family is appealing for justice and assistance with debts left from the burials. "I urge our governor, Fernandes Barasa, and other leaders to help us clear the debt," said Makokh.

"The weak have no rights, and the poor have no justice. I cannot fight for my nephew's justice because everything is about bribery in this country. We are left with over Sh80,000 in debt, which we don't know how to repay," she added.