In a stunning court twist, Isaiah Murangiri Ndumi, the police officer accused of fatally shooting 29-year-old Rex Masai during the anti-Finance Bill protests, has denied even being in Nairobi on the day of the shooting.
Appearing in court on Wednesday, July 16, Ndumi rejected CCTV footage, images, and video evidence presented by the prosecution, which allegedly places him at Nairobi’s CBD and Uhuru Highway, where Masai was killed during the June 2025 demonstrations.
“The person in a blue shirt and grey trousers with a walkie-talkie, is that you?”
“No, your honour, that is not me,” Ndumi responded in court.
The prosecution presented multiple video clips and images, including one where a man, matching Ndumi’s description, is seen holding a firearm and interacting with other armed officers during the protest.
Still, the officer categorically denied all the allegations:
“I am not the one; that person does not bear any resemblance to me. I also do not have the mark on my face that the images suggest,” he stated.
Adding to the intrigue, prosecutors say cellphone geolocation data places Ndumi at the exact location of the shooting, a claim he also disputed, arguing that the data may have been misinterpreted or manipulated.
Justice for Rex Masai Movement Continues
The death of Rex Masai, a bystander during the anti-Finance Bill protests, ignited a nationwide uproar and gave rise to the powerful #JusticeForRexMasai movement, sparking candlelight vigils, protests, and tributes across Kenya and beyond.
As public attention remains fixed on the case, the court is expected to make a determination on the admissibility of the evidence and whether the trial will proceed to full hearing. Human rights groups have also expressed concern over potential delays or interference in the judicial process.
