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A Valentine’s show headlined by King of Bongo, Diamond Platnumz, turned into a battlefield as police engaged hundreds of young people in a showdown as they tried to break into the venue for the much publicised show.
Hundreds of rowdy fans who could not afford the entry fee to the concert that also featured the best-rated radio host and comedian Jalang’o and top female deejay Pierra, engaged police officers in running battles and had to be dispersed with tear gas. The show had to be put on hold for over an hour. Diamond waited backstage, under heavy security.
The showdown started after a girl who was queuing to get into the grounds complained that her phone had been stolen. Hundreds of rowdy college students were causing havoc behind her, stealing everything they could from the helpless fans.
The alleged thief was pinned down by the others and a battle ensued with police officers helping out. But it all got ugly after a police officer was hit with a stone. This sparked the anger of his colleagues who started throwing teargas canisters into the crowd that had milled at the entrance of Simba Club, the popular Kisumu spot that has garnered the attention of politicians, corporate bosses and top Kenyan celebrities.
“What is wrong with me coming with 20 girls. I have invested Sh6 million in this event,” a man shouted as his convoy waited.
“No. We are not aware. We are not allowing you in. Call the boss,” a bouncer warned. One of his female dates raged, saying she had contributed Sh600, 000 to the project. Her 20 friends waited on.
Diamond, the showstopper of the night did not disappoint. He rocked the crowd with his popular hits among them Kigoma and his latest single with AY, Zigo.
“Nawapenda watu wa Kisumu kwa sababu hamubagui watu. Mnao upendo (I love Kisumu people because they do not discriminate. They love people),” Diamond said during the show that lasted until the early morning hours.
