Tension high in Nairobi as protesters, boda boda riders clash in CBD, motorcycles set ablaze

Protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District turned violent on Tuesday, after a group of boda boda riders believed to be hired goons clashed with demonstrators demanding justice for Albert Ojwang’, the teacher and social media influencer, who died in police custody on June 7.

The convoy of unknown people on motorbikes entered the city shouting that protests would not take place. The group, many dressed in heavy jackets and face masks, moved quickly and forcefully through the CBD, sparking panic and confusion.

Two motorcycles were burned, and a rider was badly beaten by angry protesters who accused the group of attempting to disrupt the peaceful demonstrations. Witnesses say the rider was part of a convoy of about 30 motorcycles that had entered the CBD and started attacking protesters.

Many of the motorcyclists were carrying multiple passengers and rode aggressively through key roads, including Kenyatta Avenue, Moi Avenue, and Tom Mboya Street.

Their movements appeared to be meant to scuttle the ongoing protests. Protesters quickly mobilised and confronted them, leading to chaotic scenes and at least one violent confrontation.

One of the suspected goons was cornered, beaten and left unconscious. Eyewitnesses say the attackers accused him of being part of a group that had been deployed to silence the protest.

There was a heavy police presence in the city to contain violent protests. They lobbed tear gas at various locations to disperse crowds, including near the National Archives and the Kencom area.

Despite police action, the protests carried on, with demonstrators calling for full accountability in Ojwang’s death. Many are demanding the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat. Although Lagat stepped aside on Monday, June 16, pending investigations, protestors insist that this is not enough.

In Mombasa, four protestors were arrested during similar demonstrations. Vocal Africa CEO Hussein Khalid confirmed the arrests and posted videos showing police bundling protestors into a vehicle.

“They are now even targeting the baddies of Mombasa. Those arrested so far in Mombasa and are being held at Central Police Station are Mugambi Gichunge, Batuli Swaleh, Francis Auma and Walid Sketty. We demand their immediate and unconditional release,” he said.

"Instead of arresting Lagat, they are arresting protestors demanding the arrest of Lagat," he added.

One protester could be heard questioning a plain-clothed police officer: "Look at what our government is doing. They want to arrest me like a thief. Why are you arresting me? What have I done?"

The officer did not produce a warrant or identify himself.

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• Tension high in Nairobi as protesters
• boda boda riders clash in CBD

The identity of those behind the mobilisation of the motorcyclists remains unclear, but protesters insist they will not back down until justice is served.