Police on the hunt for goons hired to infiltrate anti-Gov't protests

Acting Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja has issued an update on Tuesday's anti-government demonstrations, which were intended to culminate in the invasion of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

In a statement released on Wednesday, Kanja highlighted that the protests attracted a low turnout but goons masquerading as protesters infiltrated the demonstrations in the Nairobi CBD, North Airport Road, Pipeline, Roysambu and Kakamega town, resulting in widespread chaos, looting, and destruction in the areas.

"Yesterday July 23, 2024, demonstrations were witnessed in some parts of the country, and the same protests attracted low turnout. The deployment of adequate security personnel at critical installations including the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and cooperation with the members of public ensured that security prevailed," said Kanja.

"However, a few skirmishes were witnessed in Nairobi CBD around Kimathi Street, Archives, North Airport Road, Pipeline area, Roysambu and Kakamega Town. Our preliminary investigations indicate that some goons disguising as protestors were hired from elsewhere to cause chaos in some of the affected areas where looting and destruction of property were witnessed."

Kanja added that police are speedily investigating the incidents and those found culpable will face the full force of the law.

Gen Z protesters had planned to occupy the airport in protest of President William Ruto's government but their quest was botched following heavy security deployment in and around JKIA.

Police officers ring-fenced the international airport, implementing heightened surveillance from the first entrance to JKIA.

Vehicles and passengers were meticulously searched to ensure only travellers with proper travel documents gained access.

Citizen TV's first attempt to access the airport hit a dead end here as our reporters were informed of an "order from above" prohibiting journalists and non-travellers from proceeding further.

On the second attempt, while posing as travellers, Citizen TV journalists managed to access the airport where regular activities were proceeding normally, albeit with fewer travellers and a few flight delays.

No protesters had breached the airport, but some could be seen hanging around the perimeter fence.

Transport was greatly disrupted along the airport's route, affecting adjacent businesses.

Flights landed and took off as usual, although many travellers had to arrive early at JKIA following a notice issued by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) regarding the demonstrations.