Police reports 11 deaths and injuries in Saba Saba protests

Anti riot officers clearing the road after youths in Kitengela blocked it with stones during Saba Saba protests. [Collins Oduor, Standard]

The National Police Service (NPS) has documented 11 deaths and 11 injuries of civilians during the Saba Saba protests.

In a statement by spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, the police commended citizens for their law-abiding act and heeding the call to maintain law and order.

However, some individuals engaged in acts of lawlessness, including attacks on law enforcement officers and looting, leading to the arrest of 567, including some leaders.

“Regrettably, preliminary reports indicate fatalities, injuries, damage to motor vehicles, and several incidents of looting as detailed below. Additionally, a number of suspects have been arrested, including Hon. Gitonga Mukunji, MP for Manyatta Constituency,” stated Nyaga.

Regrettably,52 officers were injured in the scuffle with the protesters as 12 police vehicles, three government vehicles and four belonging to civilians were damaged.

The police have vowed to launch investigations into the unlawful activities that occurred during the protest.

The police service has also commended officers for demonstrating exceptional restraint and professionalism in the face of sustained violence and provocation by criminals who infiltrated the protests.

Nyaga has urged the public with information about individuals involved in criminal activities who are still at large to share that information to the authorities.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has also commended the authorities  for protecting property against criminals and standing guard during the protests.

“Thanks to their efforts and other officers across the country, the incidents of violence, looting, and destruction of property were reduced today compared to last week. We’re committed to ensuring that demonstrations and protests are peaceful and orderly,” stated Murkomen.

Additionally, the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has reported 10 deaths,29 injuries, two abductions, and 37 arrests across 17 counties..