355 arrested across Kenya during Gen Z memorial protests as Nairobi tops list

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen speaks to the press flanked by senior security officials at Harambee House on June 24, 2026. (Photo: X/Kipchumba Murkomen)

By Bashir Mbuthia
Thursday, June 25, 2026

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Other arrests were reported in Kajiado (123) and Kiambu (36). Additional cases were recorded in Murang’a (12), Bungoma (9), Meru (6), Laikipia (5), and Machakos (3).

A total of 355 people were arrested nationwide on Thursday during the June 25 Gen Z memorial protests, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced.

Speaking in Nairobi, the Interior CS noted that criminal elements attempted to infiltrate the protests in different counties before police intervened, with Nairobi recording the highest number of arrests at 161.

Other arrests were reported in Kajiado (123) and Kiambu (36). Additional cases were recorded in Murang’a (12), Bungoma (9), Meru (6), Laikipia (5), and Machakos (3), while no arrests were reported from the North Eastern, Nyanza, and Coast regions.

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“They will be brought to court to face various charges of robbery, vandalism, road obstruction, and attempted stealing,” said Murkomen.

“I commend our security agencies for their commitment and dedication to maintaining law and order.”

Several protesters have been arrested outside Central Police Station after marching there to demand the release of fellow demonstrators, who were detained earlier today during the June 25 anniversary walk. pic.twitter.com/vzTDfoAvNK

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— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) June 25, 2026

Murkomen similarly praised Kenyans for largely observing peace and responding to the government’s call to go about their normal activities during the protests. According to the CS, incidents of crime were relatively minimal, with no widespread reports of looting, vandalism, clashes with police or injuries linked to the demonstrations.

“Today is proof that when demonstrations are conducted in accordance with the provisions of our Constitution, peace and security are guaranteed. This is the political culture we should encourage and promote as a country,” he said.

“That notwithstanding, we look forward to the day when demonstrations will not affect those who have nothing to do with them. Today’s development is, however, very encouraging.”

Despite the CS’s remarks that operations across the country were proceeding as usual, most businesses remained closed as a precaution amid uncertainty. In Nairobi, police mounted roadblocks on major routes leading into the city and limited access to the Central Business District (CBD), leaving motorists and ordinary Kenyans stranded ahead of the memorial protests.

“We regret the inconveniences occasioned by these measures, and at the same time appreciate their effectiveness in securing the city and other parts of the country,” he said.