Tomaso Gagula, born Thomas Warui Njoka in 1992, was the second-born child and first son of David Njoka, a Senior Manager at the Ministry of Health, and Catherine Timitra Njoka, a peer counsellor at Kenyatta University.
Raised in Langata Estate, one of Nairobi’s affluent suburbs, Tomaso grew up in a family grounded in strong morals and Christian values, with his mother actively guiding youth at the university.
He excelled in primary school in Nairobi and later joined Pioneer School, a private secondary school in Maragua.
However, his academic journey took a turn when he was expelled in Form 2 for disciplinary reasons—a decision that strained his relationship with his father.
Following this, Tomaso dropped out of school entirely, eventually leaving home to live independently in Kayole.
It was in Kayole that Tomaso was drawn to the local “Matatu culture” and the ghetto lifestyle. Introduced to touting by Kevo Lumidee, founder of the Mauki Family Gang, Tomaso quickly adapted, using his social skills to secure a job as a tout for a local matatu named TellaBang.
Embracing this new life, he became known for his flamboyant style, including silver dental grills, and a love for reggae music. His social life included frequenting local clubs and associating with emerging artists, including Muzikal Sherriff, founder of Rastyle Entertainment.
While Tomaso’s public persona revolved around the matatu industry and nightlife, his private life involved criminal activities. By night, he participated in robberies and carjackings, often blending seamlessly with his daytime persona.
Authorities had long suspected his involvement, but a breakthrough came when a witness identified his voice during a Matatu hijacking. Despite this, Tomaso continued his criminal activities, confident in his elusiveness.
On March 12, 2014, Tomaso and his crew attempted to rob a petrol station on Kang’undo Road but failed. Police later warned his parents of his activities, which they initially dismissed.
However, Tomaso’s defiance continued until August 12, 2014, when he and his crew ambushed a resident in South C. Two days later, police located a stolen vehicle with Tomaso inside at Buruburu Shopping Centre.
When confronted, two accomplices fled, leaving Tomaso behind. He was shot 13 times by plainclothes officers and died instantly.
Tomaso Gagula’s life ended at just 22 years old, a stark reminder of how privilege, misdirection, and poor choices can intersect to tragic effect.