Photo of police officer escorting student in Nairobi warm hearts of netizens
By Joshua Cheloti
Monday, March 20, 2023, was a chaotic day for any resident who found himself in the Nairobi city centre and a number of residential estates.
For the better part of the day, there were running battles between the police and Azimio supporters who had turned up for demonstrations called by the coalition’s leadership.
Despite the heavy presence of police officers, some protestors managed to access the city Centre, forcing anti-riot police officers to shoot in the air to disperse them.
But while the internet was full of heavily armed police officers engaging protestors one photo has stood out, so far – that of a police officer escorting a student.
From the photo that has been widely shared on various social media platforms, the police officer armed with teargas and a rungu is captured helping the student in the city.
Students were returning to school following a mid-term break.
Sharing the photo on their verified Twitter handle, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations said, “Thank you for your service officer.”
The post has since received numerous reactions, a majority hailing the officer for his act of humanity.
“Hero of the Day,” one of the Twitter users replied to the post.
“Photo of the day. This is the kind of services we need,” added another user.
Some of the Kenyans even called for the immediate promotion of the officer.
However, others expressed concerns the officer might not get the recognition he deserves due to his gender.
“Get Him promoted Immediately!” Russells tweeted.
“Ingekua a woman angepata alot of promotions,lakini ju hana rosecoco nothing will happen,” added another one.
The photo has also gotten the attention of ICT Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) nominee Dennis Itumbi.
Itumbi, a digital strategist shared the photo on his verified Twitter handle but did not accompany it with a caption.
Police officers have in past protests, including the one held on March 20, 2023, been accused of brutality.
However, the photo is just an indication that the officers also have a human heart.
