Nairobi, Kenya – Residents of Dandora Phase 2 are reeling from the killing of Joseph Mwangi, a 21-year-old matatu conductor whose death has triggered protests and renewed concerns over insecurity in the area.
Mwangi was fatally stabbed approximately 100 metres from his home while carrying basic shopping items, including milk and a cake. His killing sparked outrage among residents, matatu operators, and conductors, who abandoned their vehicles and marched to Buruburu Police Station demanding swift action.
For hours, transport operations along the route were disrupted as protesters chose to demonstrate instead of working, citing what they described as a breakdown in security.
“We walked on foot from Dandora to come here to Buruburu; this man has been doing these things for a long time, and it seems the local police have been unable to do the job,” said Kabiru Kariuki, a conductor.
“The boy died a painful death… you cannot stab someone and just walk away.”
Police confirmed that the suspect is a repeat offender who had recently been released from prison and is currently on the run.
“We have identified who committed this act; he is a jailbird… he left prison not even a week ago. That is not someone who should be staying in the community. We are looking for him,” said Boniface Lomuk, OCPD Buruburu.
Community leaders, however, criticized what they termed a pattern of arrests followed by releases, allowing repeat offenders to return to the streets.
“He has been arrested and released repeatedly… we reported to Dandora Police Station, but it seems he is too much for them,” said Charles Ngatia, Chairman of the Dandora Matatu Association.
For Mwangi’s family, the loss has left a deep emotional toll. His father, John Mwangi, said he confirmed his son’s death at Mama Lucy Hospital, calling for justice.
“The only thing I can ask is for justice to be served against the person who did this,” he said.
Mwangi’s sister, Jackline Njoki, recalled her final moments with him, describing how he had been going about his daily routine before the tragic incident.
“He had just been out working to make a living… and now he is gone,” she said.
The incident has intensified calls for improved security in Dandora and surrounding areas, with residents urging law enforcement agencies to act decisively against repeat offenders and restore public safety.
