A section of police in Nairobi on Wednesday found themselves in a tight place during the ongoing in protests.
Police officers managing protesters along Kenyatta Avenue were forced to flee for their safety after being chased by demonstrators.
A video seen by The Star showed hundreds of protesters pursuing a police lorry along Kenyatta Avenue.
Several officers were seen running, while others jumped over fences to escape.
Police deployed tear gas and water cannons in the Nairobi Central Business District to disperse the protesters.
This comes even as Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja warned protesters against provoking officers on duty.
Kanja stated that while Kenyans have the right to picket, such actions must take place in designated public areas.
“The police will, at all times, prevent any breach of peace by any group or individuals acting unlawfully,” said IG Kanja.
“Any contrary conduct constitutes an unlawful and riotous assembly. The National Police Service shall, at all times, lawfully and firmly prevent any breach of peace by any group or groups acting contrary to the law. Additionally, it is important to note that unauthorized persons must refrain from accessing protected areas under the Protected Areas Act (Cap 204, Laws of Kenya),” he added.
Protests have erupted across several counties in honor of victims of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
Though the protests started peacefully, police barricaded roads, fired tear gas, and used water cannons to disperse the demonstrators.
In scenes captured on video, young protesters—mostly dressed in black—chanted slogans and stood their ground as riot police advanced.
The group formed a tight crowd at a major intersection near Parliament, pushing back against repeated attempts by officers to disperse them.
“They want us to fear, but we are not afraid,” shouted one protester, waving a placard that read “Ruto Must Go!” as others banged on road signs and chanted “Reject Finance Bill!”
As the crowd surged forward, visibly agitated officers called for reinforcements.
Moments later, additional anti-riot police arrived—some in armored trucks—while others were seen firing tear gas canisters and attempting to break through the human barrier.