Tuesday’s anti-government demonstrations, Acting Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja has issued an update on the situation, shedding light on the disruptions and chaos that ensued. The protests, initially planned to culminate in an invasion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), attracted a low turnout but were significantly marred by hired goons masquerading as protesters. These infiltrators caused widespread chaos, looting, and destruction in various areas, including Nairobi CBD, North Airport Road, Pipeline, Roysambu, and Kakamega town.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Kanja highlighted the security measures that were implemented to ensure the protection of critical installations, particularly JKIA. “Yesterday, July 23, 2024, demonstrations were witnessed in some parts of the country, and the same protests attracted a low turnout. The deployment of adequate security personnel at critical installations, including the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, and cooperation with the members of the public ensured that security prevailed,” said Kanja.
Despite the heavy security presence, a few skirmishes erupted in the Nairobi CBD around Kimathi Street, Archives, North Airport Road, Pipeline area, Roysambu, and Kakamega town. Kanja revealed that preliminary investigations indicate that the chaos was primarily caused by goons hired from elsewhere, who disguised themselves as protestors to incite looting and property destruction. The police are actively investigating these incidents, and Kanja assured that those found culpable would face the full force of the law.
The protests were organized by Generation Z activists, who had planned to occupy JKIA in protest against President William Ruto’s government. However, their plans were thwarted by the heavy security deployment in and around the airport. Police officers ring-fenced the international airport, implementing heightened surveillance from the first entrance to JKIA. Vehicles and passengers were meticulously searched to ensure that only travelers with proper travel documents gained access to the airport.
Citizen TV’s efforts to cover the protests and the situation at the airport faced significant challenges. During their first attempt to access the airport, reporters were informed of an “order from above” prohibiting journalists and non-travelers from proceeding further. Undeterred, Citizen TV journalists posed as travelers during their second attempt and managed to gain access to the airport. They reported that regular activities were proceeding normally, albeit with fewer travelers and a few flight delays. No protesters had breached the airport, but some were seen hanging around the perimeter fence.
The demonstrations and the resulting chaos disrupted transport along the route to the airport, affecting adjacent businesses. Flights landed and took off as usual, although many travelers had to arrive early at JKIA following a notice issued by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) regarding the demonstrations.
The police’s swift action and the cooperation of the public played a crucial role in maintaining security at JKIA and other critical areas. However, the incidents of looting and property destruction in various parts of the city and Kakamega town have raised concerns about the infiltration of protests by hired goons. As investigations continue, the public awaits further updates on the measures being taken to prevent such occurrences in the future.
In conclusion, Tuesday’s anti-government protests highlight the challenges faced by law enforcement in distinguishing between genuine protesters and those hired to cause chaos. The heavy security deployment at JKIA successfully prevented the planned occupation, but the incidents of looting and destruction underscore the need for continued vigilance and effective law enforcement to maintain public order.
