Acting IG Kanja Decries Protests as Criminal Disorder, Enforces Strict Security Measures

Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja Kirocho condemned the ongoing protests against the government, labeling them as a form of criminal disorder. His remarks come amid rising tensions and calls from Kenyan youth for dramatic actions, including plans to occupy the country’s premier airport, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), as part of their demonstrations against President William Ruto’s administration.

During a press briefing, IG Kanja emphasized the severity of the situation, asserting that intelligence reports have identified the current protests as a cover for criminal activities. He described the demonstrations as havens for “goons, motivated and opportunistic offenders” who are intent on looting and vandalizing properties belonging to hardworking Kenyans. His comments reflect growing concerns over the safety and security of key infrastructure amid the unrest.

IG Kanja reiterated the police force’s zero-tolerance stance towards any attempts to breach protected areas. According to the Protected Areas Act, these zones include vital facilities such as the LPG and bitumen plants, as well as the petroleum depots at the Embakasi Aviation Depot, which encompasses JKIA. The police chief emphasized that these areas are strictly off-limits to unauthorized individuals, reinforcing the legal implications of any such trespass.

“Based on credible intelligence, the current protests have become a haven for goons, motivated and opportunistic offenders who plan to loot and destroy property of hardworking Kenyans,” IG Kanja stated firmly. He underscored that the Kenya Civil Aviation Act further criminalizes the intrusion into any government aerodrome or related infrastructure, underscoring the legal ramifications of any attempts to access these areas without proper authorization.

The Acting IG’s comments come in the wake of heightened activism among Kenyan youth, who have been organizing and mobilizing online for a series of protest marches. Following earlier demonstrations such as ‘OccupyParliament’ and ‘OccupyCBD,’ the latest call for action is the ‘OccupyJKIA’ march, which aims to bring the protests to the forefront of Kenya’s air travel hub. This move has intensified concerns about potential disruptions at one of the country’s busiest airports.

President William Ruto’s administration has faced significant backlash since the controversial Finance Bill, 2024, was withdrawn late last month. Despite this concession, the protests have persisted, with demonstrators demanding a complete overhaul of the government and, in some cases, calling for Ruto’s resignation. The ongoing unrest reflects deep-seated frustrations with the current administration and its handling of various national issues.

In response to the escalating situation, IG Kanja’s address highlights the government’s commitment to maintaining order and ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure. The Acting IG’s firm stance against unauthorized access to protected areas aims to prevent any potential threats to public safety and to uphold the rule of law during these turbulent times.

As the protests continue and the calls for action grow louder, the government’s emphasis on security and the legal consequences of violating protected zones signal a firm approach to managing the current unrest. The Kenyan public is urged to comply with the directives issued by the authorities to ensure the safety of all individuals and the preservation of vital national assets.