Murkomen: 355 arrested during Gen Z anniversary protests

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has said 355 people were arrested during demonstrations held across the country on Thursday, even as he praised Kenyans for maintaining peace during the second anniversary of the Gen Z protests.

Speaking during an update on the security situation following the demonstrations, Murkomen said most parts of the country remained calm, with no widespread incidents of looting, vandalism, skirmishes or injuries reported.

"I want to commend all Kenyans for heeding the government's call to maintain peace and go about their daily activities," he said, noting that June 25 was a normal working and school day.

He said a total of 355 arrests had been recorded by the time of the briefing, with the number expected to rise as investigations continue.

Nairobi County recorded the highest number of arrests at 161, followed by Kajiado with 123 and Kiambu with 36. Other arrests were reported in Murang'a (12), Bungoma (9), Meru (6), Laikipia (5) and Machakos (3).

Those arrested are expected to face charges including robbery, vandalism, road obstruction and attempted stealing. 

Murkomen also reported that Kariti Sublocation Assistant Chief in Murang'a Anthony Kadungu was injured after being attacked by a group attempting to erect a barricade in the area.

The administrator was treated at Kundoini Health Centre and discharged in stable condition.

The CS commended security officers for what he termed professionalism and effective planning in handling the demonstrations.

"I commend our security agencies for their commitment and dedication to maintaining law and order. They acted with utmost professionalism and responded promptly to concerns by Kenyans," he said.

Earlier, Police fired teargas canisters at demonstrators in multiple locations across Nairobi’s Central Business District.

Videos circulating on social media showed heavy teargassing around City Market, where protesters attempting to push toward key government buildings were met with volleys of tear gas, forcing them to scatter toward Globe Roundabout.

Thick plumes of smoke filled the air as crowds ran for cover, with many covering their faces amid the acrid fumes.

Similar confrontations erupted near the University of Nairobi (UON) and along University Way, where students and other protesters clashed with anti-riot police trying to prevent them from entering the CBD.

Tear gas was also reported in other parts of the city centre, including areas close to Parliament, where security forces maintained a heavy presence with barricades and roadblocks.