On March 15, Mwangi Muiruri, a journalist with Nation newspaper, was attacked by unidentified assailants who coerced him at gunpoint to disclose his phone’s PIN. They also stole 2,000 shillings from him (approximately 14 euros). The attack occurred after Muiruri reported on Jacquie Maribe’s appointment as Communications Director for the Ministry of Public Service, Performance and Delivery Management by Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria. Muiruri suffered facial bruises as a result of the assault, and the assailants stole his phone. Although the incident was reported to the police, there has been no official statement regarding the progress of the investigation or any arrests made.
IPI Africa Media Freedom TrackerConfiscation of a reporter's or media outlet's equipment, notes, mobile phonePhysical attack on journalists, media infrastructure/officesSurveillance/endangering Source ProtectionVerbal, online or physical attack