Heavy deployment of anti-Riot officers in Nairobi amid protest ban
By Antynet Ford
Anti-riot police in Nairobi have braved the chilly weather as they patrolled the main streets today following the announcement by acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja on the ban of protests within the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) for an unspecified duration.
The contingent of officers was seen in and around Uhuru Park, where the group of GenZs had declared their intention to gather as part of their advocacy for governance reforms.
The ban of protest triggered a wave of criticism online, with some arguing that the police lacked the authority to enforce such a measure.
The ban on protests is said to be applicable to other regions across the country.
The acting IG emphasized that the protest organizers lack a cohesive leadership to effectively manage the demonstrations.
“As a result, no demonstrations will be allowed in the Nairobi Central Business District and its environs until further notice in order to safeguard public safety.” He stated.
Kanja highlighted that the protests that commenced in June have not only resulted in extensive property damage, but also a significant loss of lives due to the infiltration of criminal elements.
He disclosed that the police had received intelligence regarding a scheme by these criminal elements to perpetuate further disruptions, including one allegedly scheduled for Thursday, July 18, 2024.
Due to the absence of identifiable leadership among the youthful protesters, the police find it challenging to guarantee their safety, hence the decision to impose the ban.
“In alignment with our constitutional mandate and in the interest of national security, we wish to notify the public that we possess credible intelligence indicating that organized criminal factions are planning to exploit the ongoing protests to carry out their attacks, including acts of looting.” He declared on Wednesday evening.
In response, police commanders in the city deployed numerous anti-riot officers onto the streets.
They valiantly patrolled the streets despite the cold weather, with some officers remaining vigilant inside their vehicles.
The death toll from the protests has exceeded 50 individuals.
Over 400 others sustained injuries, while properties were vandalized by hooligans.
The demonstrations were triggered by the proposed Finance Bill of 2024, with protesters storming the parliament building in a display of outrage over the bill’s passage.
Read also:- Communications Authority Warns Media Against Airing Sensitive Content From Protests
