Police officers responding to a strike at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) early Wednesday were seen using force on workers protesting against the planned takeover by India’s Adani Group.
In one video circulating on social media, a baton-wielding officer was shown striking a man in civilian clothing, believed to be one of the protesters.
The strike left many international and domestic travelers stranded as airport staff walked out in opposition to the deal between Kenya and the Adani Group. The agreement would see the Indian company lease JKIA for 30 years in exchange for a $1.85 billion investment.
Images shared on social media depicted chaotic scenes at JKIA, with passengers struggling to retrieve their luggage amid the disruption caused by the strike.
The planned Adani deal has sparked widespread outrage, with critics arguing that it will result in job losses for Kenyan workers and deprive the country of future profits from the airport.
The strike has led to grounded flights and significant delays as authorities try to manage the escalating situation.
