The National Police Service has revealed plans by goons to disrupt protests planned for Tuesday, July 16, 2024.
In a statement, acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja called on Kenyans protesting to remain peaceful and vigilant.
“The National Police Service notes that there are planned demonstrations today Tuesday, July 16, 2024, organized by young Kenyans, also known as Gen Z, to exercise their fundamental right to peacefully assemble, picket and demonstrate under Article 37 of our Constitution,” Kanja said.
According to Kanja, organised criminal groups have planned to infiltrate, disrupt and destabilise the peaceful nature of the demonstrations.
“In the recent past, however, we have regrettably witnessed the tragic loss of lives, injuries, violence, criminal conduct and the destruction of property from similar protests, resulting in the collective pain and suffering for families and the disruption of business and normal working operations for thousands of Kenyans,” Kanja added.
“This morning, we received credible intelligence indicating that certain organised criminal groups have planned to infiltrate, disrupt and destabilise the peaceful nature of the demonstrations, which could potentially jeopardise the safety of demonstrators.”
Kanja has however promised that the police are ready to exercise their duty, asking Kenyans on the streets to collaborate, cooperate and coordinate with the police to ensure their safety.
“To reiterate; our mission as the National Police Service is to uphold the rule of law; serve and protect; maintain law and order; and ensure that every Kenyan enjoys their constitutional rights. While you demonstrate, we urge you to remain peaceful and vigilant. Please collaborate, cooperate and coordinate with the police to ensure your safety and our collective security as Kenyans is guaranteed during the event,” he added.