The police have published faces of persons accused of engaging in illegal activities during anti-government protests in the last two weeks.
In a poster published on X on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, the police called on the public to help identify the 38 suspects and their whereabouts.
“The Individuals whose images/photos appear below are wanted by the police for their unlawful activities during the anti-finance bill demonstrations. We therefore advise them to report to the nearest police station for further police action,” the statement read in part.
The Individuals whose images/photos appear below are wanted by the police for their unlawful activities during the anti-finance bill demonstrations. We therefore advise them to report to the nearest police station for further police action.#FichuakwaDCI 0800722203 or call 999. pic.twitter.com/whDPStcPo6
— Kenya Police Service (@PoliceKE) July 3, 2024
This comes hours after the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) announced that it had dispatched a team to pursue a gang captured on video violently robbing Kenyans.
“DCI teams have been dispatched to pursue gang members recorded by concerned citizens violently robbing innocent Kenyans on the roads while taking advantage of the ongoing demonstrations. Anyone involved in the criminal activities is reminded that it is just a matter of time before the long arm of the law catches up with them, and that their felonious acts shall be met with the full force of the law,” DCI stated.
Kindiki on crime during protests
In a statement on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki said the government is determined to stop criminals aiming to terrorize the public and harm Kenya.
“This reign of terror against the people of Kenya and the impunity of dangerous criminal gangs must end at whatever cost. The Government is determined to stop criminals aiming to terrorise the public and harm Kenya, notwithstanding attempts to politicise crime,” he said.
Kindiki assured the public that the planners, executors and financiers of large-scale arson, violent robberies and other felonious crimes will be brought to justice.
“Upon completion of the ongoing evidential analysis, the Government assures the public that the planners, executors and financiers of large-scale arson, violent robberies and other felonious crimes will be brought to justice,” Kindiki stated.
He pointed out that criminals have been taking advantage of the protests, despite President William Ruto withdrawing the controversial Finance Bill, 2024, that fueled the protests.