Tensions escalated in Eldoret on Tuesday as police officers arrested a protester identified as Peter Njogu, who was buying a flag and a whistle.
The arrest occurred amidst a growing wave of protests across the country, with law enforcement authorities on high alert.
"I was arrested while buying a flag and a whistle. They have asked me to get in here, they are saying they want to ask me some questions. I don't know whether they will release me," Njogu stated.
His arrest has sparked further outrage among protestors, who see it as a crackdown on their right to peaceful assembly.
The deployment of police officers has been significant, with law enforcement agencies attempting to curb the rising unrest.
Video seen by Kenyans.co.ke across different media houses indicate that officers have been using teargas to disperse crowds in various locations, including Nairobi, Eldoret, Kitengela and Mombasa.
The protests, which have been gaining momentum, are driven by a range of grievances, including economic hardships and political discontent.
Demonstrators have taken to the streets, demanding changes and expressing their dissatisfaction with the administration of President William Ruto.
In Eldoret, the situation remains tense as protesters and police continue to face off. The use of teargas has been reported in several pockets of the town, with similar scenes unfolding in other major cities across the country.
The authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order, urging citizens to remain calm and avoid engaging in unlawful activities.
The arrest came after the acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja urged protesters, majorly Gen Zs, to take caution and foster peaceful protests.
In a statement, the IG indicated that his office had received credible information that several criminals were planning to infiltrate their peaceful protests.
As a result, Kanja advised the protesters to collaborate, cooperate, and coordinate with the police to ensure to ensure their safety during the exercise.
He further asked the protesters to foster peace in an effort to avoid bloodshed as experienced in past protests.
"The National Police Service notes that there are planned demonstrations today Tuesday, July 16, 2024, organized by young Kenyans, also known as Gen Z, to exercise their fundamental right to peacefully assemble, picket, and demonstrate under Article 37 of our Constitution," stated the acting IG.
"In the recent past, however, we have regrettably witnessed the tragic loss of lives, injuries, violence, criminal conduct, and the destruction of property from similar protests, resulting in the collective pain and suffering for families and the disruption of business and normal working operations for thousands of Kenyans."
