Police Warn Against Hiring Youths to ‘Protect’ Businesses During Protests
Police spokesperson Michael Muchiri has cautioned Kenyans against hiring youths to guard businesses during protests, saying the responsibility lies solely with security agencies.
Speaking to Radio Citizen on Monday, Muchiri stressed that such private arrangements are illegal and warned that individuals participating in these activities are breaking the law.
“Those claiming to protect their businesses must stop. There is no legal provision that allows private citizens to hire people for such purposes,” Muchiri stated. “Any youth being mobilised to guard businesses during protests is engaging in serious criminal activity.”
His remarks follow reports that political operatives allegedly hired gangs under the pretext of protecting businesses during recent demonstrations in Nairobi. However, circulating videos showed these groups—some armed with batons—assaulting protesters and looting shops in the city centre.
Muchiri confirmed that police are reviewing CCTV footage and video evidence to identify and arrest those involved.
“We have analysed the videos and arrests will follow. We will target those claiming to protect businesses who have instead been involved in criminal acts. Such lawlessness will not be tolerated,” he added.
The police spokesperson urged restraint ahead of the planned nationwide protests on June 25, which will honour victims of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations and demand justice for those killed by rogue officers.
“We urge for peaceful demonstrations. Public anger should not lead to violence,” Muchiri said. “The recent protests have been a learning experience, and we call for respect towards our officers, who are equally human.”
Meanwhile, Nairobi Central OCPD Stephen Okal, who has engaged with protest organisers, assured that police will provide adequate security during the demonstrations.
