The National Police Service (NPS) has launched an investigation into the disturbances that occurred during protests witnessed on July 23, 2024.

In a press statement, the acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja revealed that hired goons, disguised as protestors, were brought in to cause chaos, leading to looting and property damage in several areas across the country.

“Our preliminary investigations indicate that some goons disguising as protestors were hired from elsewhere to cause chaos in some of the affected areas where looting and destruction of property were witnessed,” read the statement in part.

The NPS noted that despite the low turnout for the planned “Occupy JKIA “demonstrations, the police had deployed adequate security personnel to critical locations, such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in an effort to maintain order.

“Yesterday July 23, 2024, demonstrations were witnessed in some parts of the country, and the same protests attracted low turnout.”

However, several estates including those in the Roysambu and Githurai 44 area as well as parts of Pipeline in Embakasi witnessed violence as police engaged protesters in running battles.  

Police IG Vows Action Against Goons 

According to the acting Police boss, isolated incidents of violence were reported in various neighborhoods such as Kimathi Street, Archives, North Airport Road, Pipeline area, Kakamega Town and Roysambu.

“The deployment of adequate security personnel at critical installations including the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and cooperation with the members of public ensured that security prevailed.”

Also Read: Police IG Lists Protected Areas Around JKIA Ahead of Protests; Sends Warning

The NPS has assured the public that the investigation will be swift and thorough, and that those found responsible for the unrest will face legal consequences.

“We wish to assure the public that the ongoing investigations into these and related matters will be speedy, thorough and those found culpable will face the full force of the law.”

Police Suppress Occupy JKIA Protests

Tuesday’s protests saw youth mobilize in protest against President Ruto’s administration which they feel was out of touch with the citizens and has failed to listen and address their grievances.

Gen Z protesters had announced a planned shutdown of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). However, their plans failed to materialize as security was heightened at the airport and its environs.

Also Read: LIVE UPDATES: Kenya Air Force Officers Deployed in Pipeline Area to Counter Protestors 

Due to this development, most of the action during Tuesday’s protest took place in the Nairobi Central Business district where police engaged protesters in running battles.

Kanja had earlier on Tuesday warned protesters against attempting to access JKIA, which he noted was an area protected by the law.

He also warned that anyone found trespassing in the protected area would face the force of the law

“We will not allow people to enter JKIA without permission. Any person who breaks the law will be dealt with swiftly, firmly and decisively in accordance with the law.” said Kanja.

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