During the incident, Nzomo was not the only one hit by stray bullet fired by police officers.
Benson Muia, had just closed his printing office and was going to withdraw some cash from the bank that was under attack. Unaware of what was happening, he innocently walked towards the Automated Teller Machine.
Just as he was about to get inside the ATM, the shooting started. He realised he had been shot after he felt sharp pain on his left arm.
He was rushed to Machakos General Hospital where he underwent treatment, again in his situation; the bullet could not be removed.
“Many people think am long dead…they even stopped coming to my printing shop,” he lamented. He’s constantly asked: “You did not die?” His wife, Damaris Mutinda says his productivity reduced drastically after the incident.
“I’m always worried about his fate,” she explained in her native Kamba language.
Clinical psychologist Felix Opondo who has handled similar situations says it’s important for a person with a bullet in his body to undergo counseling sessions.
He explains that through speaking out, it helps in reducing the fear, blame and pain.
“Counseling helps retain their courage in life and help them deal with their emotions,” he said. In the case of Nzomo, he says consistent counselling is required to help with the feeling that he cannot be fruitful anymore.
Even as they think of seeking justice through a possible compensation by the government, they know their lives will never be the same again.
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