Police lob teargas to disperse surging crowds at Kasarani Stadium
The chaotic scenes unfolded as some mourners reportedly attempted to force their way into the VIP section of the 60,000-capacity stadium, prompting officers to lob teargas canisters to control the surging crowd.
Police fired teargas at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Thursday afternoon to disperse thousands of mourners who had turned up to view the body of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
The chaotic scenes unfolded as some mourners reportedly attempted to force their way into the VIP section of the 60,000-capacity stadium, prompting officers to lob teargas canisters to control the surging crowd.
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Videos seen by The Eastleigh Voice showed thick clouds of smoke billowing across the stands as people ran for safety, coughing and covering their faces. Others were seen attempting to shield themselves as security personnel moved in to restore order.
The situation reportedly became difficult to manage as people were pushing and breaking seats, forcing police to act quickly. The viewing turned unruly as the mourners threw small branches and plastic chairs toward the VIP stage in protest over delays.
Chaos erupts at Kasarani Stadium as police fire tear gas to disperse mourners shortly after the arrival of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body. pic.twitter.com/eUEMAOgEK4
— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) October 16, 2025
During the ensuing melee, a man was injured as NYS officers were seen forming a ring at the Kasarani Stadium pitch.
According to witnesses, the crowd became impatient after waiting for hours to access the stadium’s main stands, where the body of the former Prime Minister was to be placed for public viewing.
Several people were reported injured during the stampede and scuffles with police as officers struggled to regain control of the entry points.
Earlier, the convoy bearing Odinga’s body, draped in the national flag, had arrived at Kasarani under tight military escort, accompanied by his supporters and security officials.
The former Prime Minister’s body had been flown in from India, where he passed away on Wednesday, while undergoing treatment.
Authorities were later seen sealing off some sections of the stadium to allow for crowd reorganisation, as organisers appealed for calm and orderly viewing.
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