At least 355 people were arrested across the country following Thursday’s demonstrations held to mark the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 anti-government protests, with the government saying those detained will face various criminal charges.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, while giving an update on the country’s security situation after the demonstrations, said the suspects were apprehended over offences including robbery, vandalism, obstruction of roads and attempted theft.
He noted that the number of arrests could rise as security agencies continue receiving reports from different parts of the country.
Nairobi registered the highest number of arrests, with 161 people taken into custody. Kajiado followed with 123 arrests, while Kiambu recorded 36.
Other arrests were made in Murang’a, Bungoma, Meru, Laikipia and Machakos, while no arrests had been reported in the North Eastern, Coast and Nyanza regions by the time of the briefing.
Murkomen also confirmed that an assistant chief from Kariti Sub-location in Murang’a County sustained injuries after he was attacked by individuals who were allegedly attempting to erect a barricade in Kandara.
“He was treated and discharged in fair condition,” Murkomen said.
Even as he outlined the arrests, the Interior CS thanked Kenyans who participated in the demonstrations peacefully, saying most citizens observed the law despite heightened political tensions surrounding the anniversary.
“I would like to commend all Kenyans for heeding the government’s call to maintain peace and go about their daily activities. As I said yesterday, today was a working and school day like any other day. No widespread cases of looting, vandalism, skirmishes, or injuries were reported across the country. This is not only commendable but also a testament to the maturity of our politics and governance,” he said.
Murkomen also applauded police officers and other security personnel for their conduct throughout the day, saying they responded effectively to emerging security concerns and maintained order.
“I commend our security agencies for their commitment and dedication to maintaining law and order. They acted with utmost professionalism and responded promptly to concerns raised by wananchi. We salute them for their effective organisation and meticulous planning,” he added.
Authorities had deployed a heavy security presence before the demonstrations, sealing off major roads leading into Nairobi’s Central Business District in an effort to prevent large crowds from accessing key government installations.
Despite the restrictions, a small group of activists and political leaders managed to reach Parliament Buildings, where they laid flowers in memory of those who lost their lives during the June 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests.
The government’s latest security update signals that investigations into incidents reported during the demonstrations are still ongoing, with more arrests and court appearances expected as police conclude their inquiries.
