Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja on Wednesday announced that the government has banned protests in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) until further notice.
In a statement, Kanja claimed that the National Police Service (NPS) has received credible intelligence that organised criminal groups were planning to take advantage of protests to execute various forms of crime including looting from businesses located at the heart of the business district.
The Acting Inspector General also claimed that the very characteristic of the recent protests lacking a leader had “made it difficult” to enforce safety protocols.
“As a result no demonstrations will be permitted in the Nairobi Central Business District and its surroundings until further notice to ensure public safety,” the statement issued by the NPS read in part.
The Acting Inspector General based the decision on the disruptions the country has been subjected to since the antigovernment protests began.
“Since the public demonstrations by Kenyan youths (Gen Z) began in June this year, our country has experienced enormous losses, people have been injured, lives lost, property and businesses destroyed and livelihoods lost,”
“Criminals have continued to infiltrate the protesting groups, resulting in a troubling trend of disorderly and destructive conduct,”
The Acting Inspector General claimed that while the constitution guarantees the freedom to picket, the same document also mandates the National Police Service to ensure that national security is maintained.
Kanja subsequently proceeded to ask Kenyans to remain vigilant and support the police service by sharing any information that may help the police thwart potential crime.
The Acting Inspector General’s statement was issued ahead of another round of protests set to be held on Thursday.
A few hours prior, the Russian Embassy in Nairobi had issued an advisory to its citizens in Kenya advising them against leaving their residences.
“Dear citizens of Russia who are in Kenya. In connection with the expected protest demonstrations on July 18, 2024 in Nairobi and other cities of the country, we urge you to exercise caution and vigilance and, if possible, not to leave your place of residence,” the alert read in part.
—Source: Kenyans.co.ke
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