Majengo, Pumwani, was rocked by violent protests on Wednesday morning following reports that a police officer shot two individuals on Tuesday night.
Enraged residents took to the streets, setting fire to the area chief’s office, a police vehicle, and several private cars in retaliation.
The demonstrations began late Tuesday night, with youths barricading roads using stones and chanting slogans condemning police brutality. As tensions escalated, smoke billowed over the area as flames engulfed property.
By Wednesday morning, additional police officers had been deployed to contain the situation, but they were met with fierce resistance from stone-throwing protesters. Officers responded by firing live rounds into the air and using tear gas to disperse the crowds, turning the area into a chaotic scene of running battles.
One of the victims of the alleged shooting was identified as Ibrahim, while the other, a Ugandan national, was reportedly mute and unable to communicate. According to witnesses, the two were in an area known for illegal substance trade when police officers arrived, allegedly to collect bribes.
When officers confronted the individuals at the scene, frustrated residents attempted to engage the police. It remains unclear how the officer discharged his firearm, injuring the two men before being rescued by colleagues.
News of the shooting spread rapidly, fueling public outrage. Protesters demanded justice and action against the officer involved in the incident.
By mid-morning, police were still struggling to restore calm, with sporadic clashes continuing between officers and demonstrators. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident or confirm whether any arrests have been made.
Tension remains high in Majengo as residents await further updates.
