Kanja commented on the protests which were witnessed in various parts of the capital city but attracted a low turnout.
Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has revealed that goons were hired to cause chaos during protests in various parts of Nairobi on July 23, 2024.
In a statement on Wednesday, July 24, Kanja commented on the protests which were witnessed in various parts of the capital city but attracted a low turnout.
Nonetheless, the protests saw incidents of looting and property destruction, particularly in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) and surrounding areas.
Kanja added that the security forces had anticipated the demonstrations and deployed adequate personnel at critical installations, including the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to ensure security.
Officers from the Kenya Air Force deployed to Pipeline on July 23, 2024. /NGINA KIRORI
This proactive measure, coupled with cooperation from the public, was largely successful in maintaining order across the city.
On the goons, the Acting IG indicated that they were hired from other parts of the country to cause chaos in the affected areas.
“However, a few skirmishes were witnessed in Nairobi CBD around Kimathi Street, Archives, North Airport Road, Pipeline area, Roysambu, and Kakamega Town.
“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 acting IG assured the public that the investigations on the goons would be speedy and the perpetrators would be brought to book.
“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,” Kanja added.
On Tuesday, Kenyans took to the streets to protest against the Kenya Kwanza government and planned to occupy JKIA, but police responded by beefing up security at the entrance of JKIA and dispersed any protestors who attempted to march to the airport through the major roads, especially Outering Road and Mombasa Road.
The protests in Nairobi CBD turned chaotic after pro-government boda boda operators protested across the city, calling on Kenyans to give President William Ruto time, but were met by their anti-government counterparts.
One boda boda operator was injured in the violence and his motorcycle was set on fire. Police were forced to fire tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Later on Tuesday, Kenyans accused police of inflicting brutality on residents as they headed back to their respective residential areas.
