Ahead of the planned Saba Saba Day protests, which have brought operations across the country to a near standstill, the National Police Service (NPS) has issued a warning to protesters regarding how the protests should be conducted.
In a statement issued on Sunday night, the service warned that it would deal with all armed protesters as per the law, should they be arrested with weapons during the protests.
Protesters intending to breach protected areas have also been warned that the police would not hesitate to take action against them. This comes amid reports that some protesters had planned to access critical security installations such as the Parliament and State House.
Following the ugly scenes witnessed at major business operations in Nairobi and other towns, where goons broke into shops and looted, NPS has warned that its officers would take stern actions on such acts of vandalism.
Additionally, the public has also been cautioned against provoking police officers who are lawfully carrying out their delegated duties.
Meanwhile, police officers were urged to ensure that they carry themselves with professionalism in a bid to contain the reputation that NPS has found itself in, with claims of brutality.
Additionally, the statement signed by police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, assured Kenyans that the police would protect property and lives despite the tensions
"Entering or attempting to access Protected Government installations or restricted areas is a violation of The Protected Areas Act, Cap 204 Laws of Kenya and shall attract immediate legal action," read part of the statement.
"Looting, vandalism of any form and destruction of property, blocking roads, or even incitement to violence under the guise of protests shall not be tolerated. Such acts are criminal and shall be met with lawful action by security agencies."
Meanwhile, Nairobi commuters faced significant disruption this Monday morning, as police roadblocks brought major city roads to a standstill.
Thousands attempting to reach the Central Business District and surrounding areas found their journeys hampered, leading to widespread delays and frustration.
The police action comes despite a court order explicitly prohibiting the erection of such roadblocks ahead of planned protests.
Roads particularly affected by the early morning lockdown included sections of Thika Road at Roysambu, Kasarani and Guri Nanak, Mombasa Road at GM and Bunyala Roundabouts, and the Eastern Bypass at 75 Roundabout.
The police action comes despite a court order explicitly prohibiting the erection of such roadblocks ahead of planned protests.
Roads particularly affected by the early morning lockdown included sections of Thika Road at Roysambu, Kasarani and Guri Nanak, Mombasa Road at GM and Bunyala Roundabouts, and the Eastern Bypass at 75 Roundabout, among other roads.
