Maina’s limb damage is irreversible, according to the doctors treating him.
Senior police officer who lost both hands during protests against the finance law says, “I’m ready to face life’s challenges.”
“I will make the necessary adjustments because this is the truth and reality.”
Maina talked movingly from his hospital bed at Nairobi West Hospital, where he is receiving treatment, on how he will explain what happened to him to his kids.
A police report states that the cop set off the tear gas canister and held off on discharging it, causing it to explode on his hands.
During Tuesday’s protests in Nairobi, a tear gas canister exploded, leaving a senior police officer without hands. He boldly spoke up about his tragedy, accepting the consequences of the incident on his life.
Chief Inspector David Karuri Maina stated that although living without both hands will never be the same, he has come to terms with this fact and is prepared to face life’s obstacles.
“I will make the necessary adjustments since this is the truth and reality. I am aware that my life will not go on like it did before,” he said.
He remarked, “I’m not sure what I will tell my kids about this, but I know they would be shocked.”
He continued, “There are a lot of things I was doing that I would not be able to do. This one has changed my life a lot.”
Among those who paid him a visit was Adamson Bungei, the regional commander of Nairobi, who extended his support during this trying period.
Another police officer who suffering chest injuries is also undergoing treatment at the same clinic.
Despite his tragic loss, Maina—a father of three—also wanted to emphasize to the demonstrators the significance of following police orders when participating in protests.
He remarked, “We have the right to demonstrate, but let’s follow instructions when you are told not to move in a certain direction for whatever reason.”
