Several pupils at a primary school in Meru County collapsed on Friday after police officers stormed the institution and lobbed tear gas canisters while attempting to disperse protesters who had taken refuge within the school premises. The incident occurred as the pupils were in their classrooms, engaged in routine learning activities.
According to reports, the tear gas canisters were deployed by the police in an effort to control the protesters, inadvertently affecting the students. Video footage showed school teachers desperately trying to resuscitate some of the pupils who had collapsed after inhaling the fumes. Other students were seen rushing to water points in an attempt to alleviate the irritation caused by the tear gas.
An ambulance arrived promptly at the scene, carrying a medical team that administered first aid to the affected pupils before transporting them to the hospital. Due to the large number of children requiring medical attention, additional ambulances were called to ensure all received timely care.
One teacher recounted the events, saying, “There were about four tear gas canisters, and one was thrown inside the classroom, but I think it was accidental.” The teacher also noted that some protesters jumped over the school fence and entered the compound when the tear gas was deployed.
The protesters, who were briefly confronted by police inside the school, eventually dispersed. They had been demonstrating, demanding the resignation of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza. Despite the chaotic events, the demonstrators vowed to continue their protests until the governor steps down.
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