Karatina-Nyeri Highway Blocked: Protests Over Fatal Shooting of Businessman George Gathu Matheri Bring Traffic to Standstill

On January 19, 2026, the Karatina-Nyeri Road (part of the Nairobi-Nyeri highway) experienced major traffic disruption after angry residents and youths blocked the highway with stones and burning tyres. The protests erupted following the fatal shooting of local businessman George Gathu Matheri by police from Karatina Police Station on the night of January 18, around 11:00 p.m. near a petrol station in Karatina Town. Police claim the officer acted in self-defense after the victim allegedly tried to grab an AK-47 rifle, but community members strongly dispute this version and are demanding justice. In response, demonstrators caused significant chaos, including minor property vandalism. Police have been deployed to divert traffic, manage the scene, and clear the road, while the suspected officer has been arrested and is in custody pending further investigation. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched a formal probe into the use of force. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the affected section entirely, follow police-directed alternative routes, avoid confronting protesters or forcing through barricades, and stay updated via official channels. Residents and businesses near the protest site should exercise caution and remain indoors where possible. The situation remains tense and fluid as authorities work to restore order and reopen the highway.

Karatina, Nyeri County – January 19, 2026 – A busy section of the Karatina–Nyeri Road, which forms part of the main Nairobi–Nyeri highway, is facing major traffic disruption today. Angry residents and youths have blocked the road with large stones and burning tyres, stopping most vehicles from moving through the area.

The protests started after a local businessman named George Gathu Matheri was shot dead by police on the night of January 18, 2026. The incident happened around 11:00 p.m. near a petrol station (reported as Rubis Karatina) in Karatina Town during a routine police patrol. Police say the officer fired in selfdefense because the man tried to grab an AK-47 rifle, but many residents do not accept this explanation and are calling for justice.

Right after the shooting, upset community members took to the streets. They blocked the highway, lit bonfires and caused heavy traffic jams. Some nearby property was also damaged during the unrest though the full extent is not yet clear. Police have rushed to the scene to manage the situation, divert traffic and try to clear the road. The officer suspected of firing the shot has been arrested and is in custody awaiting further investigation and possible court appearance.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has quickly started a full investigation into the shooting to check how force was used and ensure accountability. The situation is still tense and changing, with police working to restore calm and reopen the road.

Motorists heading between Karatina and Nyeri or connecting to Nairobi should completely avoid the blocked part of the Karatina–Nyeri Road until authorities say it is safe again. Follow any alternative routes that traffic police, road signs or official updates direct you to. Do not try to push through barricades or argue with protesters as this could make things worse. Residents and businesses close to the protest area should stay indoors and be extra careful. Keep checking trusted official sources for the latest news on road conditions and safety. This event once more raises worries about police actions and relations with the community in central Kenya.

Karatina-Nyeri Highway Blocked: Protests Over Fatal Shooting of Businessman George Gathu Matheri Bring Traffic to Standstill

By Ignitious Ochieng

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