Kenyans on social media engaged heavily following the matatu strike that paralysed transport across major towns.
The goslow and protests, linked to the recent fuel price increase also left a trail of destruction in some parts.
At Githurai 45 along the busy Thika Superhighway, a black Mazda was set ablaze right on the highway, sending thick black smoke into the air as flames engulfed the vehicle.
The incident occurred as demonstrations linked to the transport boycott escalated across Nairobi and surrounding areas, turning key commuter routes into flashpoints of unrest.
The exact cause of the fire remains unconfirmed, with authorities yet to determine whether the vehicle was deliberately targeted or caught in the chaos.
Following these reports of property destruction, netizens took to X to voice disappointment with the turn witnessed in the violence-ridden areas.
Guys.
— FERDINAND OMONDI (@FerdyOmondi) May 18, 2026
This is not it.
Attacking fellow civilians doesn’t change the system. It aggravates brotherly hostility.
Kenya Police must also take the blame for that stupid post downplaying a strike which has historical trails of collateral damage.
Do your job. Don't play politics. pic.twitter.com/C8SbFUchfS
Reactions online remained divided, with some users condemning the destruction of private property while others blamed rising tensions and lack of accountability.
Ferdinand Omondi said the attacks on motorists were unjustified, arguing they deepen divisions and undermine the credibility of street protests.
Another user, Mwacha, questioned the targeting of private vehicles, saying it erodes the legitimacy of demonstrations as a tool for change.
Others suggested the vehicle may have carried political markings, with some claiming it had UDA stickers.
X user Ringera Humphrey noted that branding vehicles with political symbols in a tense environment could attract unintended consequences.
With public transport paralysed, commuters were forced to walk long distances along major routes, including Thika Road, Mombasa Road, Waiyaki Way, Jogoo Road and Ngong Road.
In Kitengela, Ruiru and Witeithie, unrest was also reported, with tyres set alight along major roads, disrupting movement and leaving highways largely deserted.
The strike was called by the Transport Sector Alliance after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority’s latest fuel review, which saw super petrol rise by Sh16.65 and diesel by Sh46.29 per litre.
The alliance is demanding a reversal of the increases to bring prices down to about Sh152 per litre, and is also calling for the resignation of the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum.
The National Police Service had earlier assured the public of enhanced security, warning that disruptive conduct would be dealt with firmly, but running battles and transport paralysis have continued in several areas.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has since announced plans for urgent consultations with President William Ruto over the fuel pricing structure.