Police disperse anti-government protesters in Kitengela

Anti-riot police patrolling Kitengela town on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. [Peterson Githaiga, Standard]

Anti-riot police deployed tear gas to disperse anti-government protesters in Kitengela, Kajiado County on Tuesday, July 30.

Demonstrators had blocked part of the Nairobi-Namanga Road with stones and lit bonfires before police intervened.

Security in the town has been intensified, with a contingent of officers from various units, including prisons and plainclothes officers, patrolling the area.

The Standard also reported the presence of several police water cannon trucks.

Businesses and transportation were disrupted for most of the day as police clashed with the youthful protesters.

Kitengela has become a hotspot for demonstrations, with locals expressing concern about possible infiltration by violent elements, as seen in previous protests.

Meanwhile, police engaged in running battles with matatu operators who had barricaded the Keroka-Sotik highway in Kisii County.

The operators accused traffic police of harassment, alleging that officers demand bribes.

Traffic was disrupted for several hours before order was restored.

More follows…