The situation turned chaotic at Holy Family Basilica when police officers raided the medical camp set up on church grounds using tear gas and bullets.
The Red Cross has established a tent there to provide free treatment to protesters injured during the anti-Finance Bill protests. Medical teams from Kenyatta National Hospital and other facilities are present, offering aid to casualties.
Those with gunshot wounds sustained during the protesters’ breach of the police barricade outside Parliament, following the passage of the Anti-Finance Bill, are receiving initial treatment. Those with limb fractures are being referred to KNH.
Approximately 30 to 40 people with various injuries, including fractures, have been treated at the camp, with around 10 in serious condition sent to KNH.
Despite emergency workers identifying themselves as Kenya Red Cross personnel and pleading with police not to shoot, officers continued firing, prompting medical personnel to take cover.
“Don’t shoot, don’t shoot, this is Red Cross, please don’t shoot,” the aid workers shouted.
Although medical personnel at the Holy Family Basilica camp are facing challenges with essential supplies, they remain on standby and ready to assist “in case of any other casualties.”
By Vivian K.