'Nane Nane' demos: Routes to Nairobi CBD closed as police battle protesters

Images and footage obtained by Citizen Digital showed barricades erected on major roads to prevent protesters from accessing the CBD. 

From Mombasa Road to Thika Road and Jogoo Road, armed police officers have set up roadblocks where vehicles are being inspected, with some prevented from entering the CBD, including public service vehicles (PSVs).

On Mombasa Road, a roadblock was erected at the GM roundabout, while other officers manned the Bunyala Roundabout, blocking motorists, including  from entering the Nairobi CBD. Along Jogoo Road, armed police patrolled various sections, with a roadblock set up on Manyanja Road, preventing youths from leaving Kayole Estate.

Juja Road, which connects to Thika Road, was blocked for most of the day, with no matatus allowed towards the city centre.

Inside the CBD, police officers were seen clearing the area, with businesses closing down and public service vehicles (PSV) leaving.

The situation remained tense throughout Thursday with police using teargas to disperse the protesters and more arrests being made as the protests continued.

Acting police chief Gilbert Masengeli on Wednesday warned that "criminals" intended to infiltrate the demonstrations, advising people to stay away from protected zones such as the main international airport and President Ruto's official residence, and to take precautions in crowded areas.