City Affairs

Police inaction sparks uproar as Kenyans decry looting, destruction of property during protests

Police offices are pictured in the Nairobi city centre during anti-government protests on July 2, 2024. (Photo: Justine Ondieki/EV)

By Lucy Mumbi | Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Kenyans have voiced their concerns over the police conduct during the ongoing anti-government protests on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, now in its third week.

The nationwide protests, which occurred in multiple counties including Nairobi, Mombasa, Machakos, Kisumu, Kwale, and Kitui, resulted in widespread destruction and looting of businesses and properties.

In a video seen by the Eastleigh Voice, Qaffe Point Restaurant was vandalised, and cars parked outside were set ablaze.

The restaurant owner attempted to ward off the #OccupyCBDTuesday protesters by firing at them but was subsequently arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) after two people were injured and required medical attention.

“Following today's unfortunate shooting at Ganjoni area of Mombasa by a civilian firearm holder and the alleged owner of Qaffee Point Hotel that left some persons injured, the said shooter has since been arrested, disarmed and placed in custody. The reported two persons who suffered injuries are receiving medical aid, and we pray that they will recuperate fast,” DCI said.

Quickmart Supermarket in Mtwapa was also looted, with thugs stealing various items.

In Mlolongo, criminals were seen damaging metal barriers on the Nairobi Expressway.

In Nairobi, business owners took it upon themselves to protect their properties from looters.

While some police officers arrested looters targeting shops along Luthuli Avenue in the Central Business District, others were seen standing idly by as businesses were ransacked.

The apparent inaction by police officers has angered many Kenyans, who took to social media platform X, to express their frustration, raising questions about their role in safeguarding public safety and property during such difficult times.

“The police are looking on as vigilante goons rob protestors, motorists, and loot shops,” James Wanjeri posed.

“Goons are now taking over Mombasa. Police officers will just watch you being robbed. Please if you are within Mombasa avoid CBD,” Gideon Kibe warned.

Arap Nyasikera criticised the police's double standards saying, “When protestors are peaceful, they get shot by the police. When goons attack businesses, the police stay back and watch.”

“You know it's funny how the police are arresting peaceful protesters but when goons are terrorising property the same police officers just stand and watch. Make it make sense,” added Malkia.

Another user, Ephraim Mjomba, noted, “The police have allowed all manner of hooliganism to take place under their watch.”

Activist Boniface Mwangi condemned the situation, urging peaceful protesters to go home.

“Good people. Let’s go home. As usual, the government has let goons take over, loot, and burn property again. Those goons are getting state protection while peaceful protesters are being beaten, arrested and even killed. It’s a shame it has come to this. When the state behaves like thugs, we keep off,” he said.

“Mchezo wa taoni. Those goons are hired and are looting while police watch. maybe we should focus on how to deal with such impunity because no way people will be gagged and afraid to protest because of goons,” Zipporah Bundi added.