The fatal shooting of Principal Magistrate Monica Njoki Kivuti at Makadara Law Courts in June 2024 remains one of the most disturbing attacks on Kenya’s justice system, exposing critical security gaps within court premises.
On Thursday, June 13, 2024, Kivuti, then 46, was presiding over cases in a temporary tent courtroom set up within the court compound.
Proceedings were underway when gunfire suddenly erupted, sending lawyers, court staff, and members of the public into panic.
Investigations later established that the shooter was Chief Inspector Samson Kipchirchir Kipruto, the Officer Commanding Station at Londiani Police Station.
Kipruto, who was armed and had reportedly left his station without authorization, was also the husband of an accused person whose case was before the court.
Earlier that day, Kivuti had handled a case involving Jennifer Wairimu, who faced charges of obtaining KSh 2.9 million by false pretence.
Court records indicated that Wairimu had repeatedly failed to attend hearings, citing illness and submitting documents that were later suspected to be forged.
After reviewing the matter, Kivuti cancelled Wairimu’s bond and ordered her remand at Lang’ata Women’s Prison.
Moments after the ruling, Kipruto forced his way through a restricted access point and opened fire at close range, shooting the magistrate in the chest and leg.
Officers present, including Augustine Michael Kithumbi, Maureen Lepes, and Eunice Macharia, responded immediately, engaging the attacker and fatally shooting him inside the courtroom. Several officers were injured during the exchange.
Kivuti was rushed to hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries on Saturday, June 15, 2024. In her final moments, she reportedly asked her husband, lawyer Mutima Kang’ata, about their young daughter.
Chief Justice Martha Koome later stated that the attack appeared premeditated, describing it as a direct assault on a judicial officer carrying out her duties.
Kivuti left behind her husband and three daughters. She was buried on June 22, 2024, in Yatta, Machakos County.
In December 2024, President William Ruto posthumously awarded her the Order of the Grand Warrior, recognising her service and sacrifice.
The incident continues to be cited in discussions on judicial security reforms, standing as a stark reminder of the risks faced by officers in the line of duty.