Over 270 Arrested in Kenya After Nationwide Protests; Authorities Declare Wanted Individuals

Kenyan authorities have confirmed the arrest of more than 270 individuals following nationwide protests that swept across the country on Tuesday.

The arrests were made as part of efforts to address criminal activities linked to the demonstrations, initially organized to protest governance issues, according to a statement from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) released late Tuesday.

In Nairobi, 204 individuals were detained, with an additional 68 arrested in various regions, the DCI statement reported.

Investigators have been deployed to identify suspects involved in violent acts, including robbery, theft, and vandalism, captured on CCTV and mobile recordings during the protests.

The demonstrations, which initially focused on opposing a finance bill last month, expanded into broader anti-government protests on Tuesday, attracting thousands of participants nationwide.

Footage circulated online depicted incidents of violence, clashes with law enforcement, looting, and property damage in Nairobi and other cities.

In an update on Wednesday, police posted photos of 40 individuals wanted for allegedly inciting unrest during the protests, urging them to surrender at the nearest police station.

Regarding a shooting incident in Ganjoni, Mombasa, allegedly involving the owner of QAFFEE POINT Hotel, police confirmed the arrest of the suspect and assured the public that two injured individuals were receiving medical care.

“The DCI appreciates the public’s cooperation in swiftly attending to the injured and urges calm as legal proceedings continue,” the statement concluded.