Acting Inspector General Douglas Kanja has issued a warning to youth planning to hold peaceful demonstrations, cautioning that criminal gangs intend to infiltrate and disrupt their protests.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Kanja announced that credible information has been received regarding these plans.
“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,” he said.
The Acting IG urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and vigilant throughout the protests. He emphasized the importance of cooperation and coordination with the police to ensure everyone’s safety.
Kanja highlighted that maintaining order and security is crucial for the protection of the demonstrators. “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,” he stated.
The police notification was issued on the same day youths are expected to protest across the country. Previous protests last month resulted in numerous deaths, injuries, and extensive property damage.
Anti-riot police officers have barricaded all roads leading to State House Nairobi this morning following the planned nationwide protest.
Vehicles and their occupants are screened and checked before access while others are being turned away.
Other city roads were deserted on Tuesday morning, with less traffic seen on Nairobi streets.
Businesses were also closed in places such as the Adams Arcade, with selected shops in the CBD also closed.
The protests which began as a move to stop parliament from passing the Finance Bill 2024, has now morphed into a call for President William Ruto’s resignation, and an overhaul of the Kenya Kwanza government.