NAIROBI — The police have warned Kenyans against paying young men to “guard” their businesses during protests, saying the move is unlawful and could worsen tensions already running high across the country.
Speaking during an interview with Radio Citizen on Monday, Police Spokesperson Michael Muchiri urged business owners to leave security matters to the authorities.
“Those saying they’re protecting their businesses should stop,” he said. “There is no law that gives citizens the right to hire people for protection. That is the work of the police.”
His remarks come days before nationwide protests set for June 25, in honour of those who died during last year’s anti-Finance Bill demonstrations. Organisers say they also want justice for victims allegedly killed by rogue officers.
Tensions have risen after videos shared widely online showed groups of armed youths reportedly hired as “private protectors” mugging protesters and breaking into shops in downtown Nairobi. Some were seen wielding batons and iron bars.
Muchiri confirmed that investigators are analysing CCTV footage and mobile videos to identify the culprits.
“After looking at the videos, people will start getting arrested,” he said. “We are going after those who claimed to be protecting businesses. Any act that breaks the law will not go unpunished.”
He stressed that no amount of political frustration justifies lawlessness, and urged all protesters to remain peaceful.
“We must uphold peace,” he said. “The protests we’ve witnessed have taught us lessons. We should move forward with more respect for one another.”
Muchiri also appealed to the public to treat police officers with dignity, noting that recent clashes should not be seen as a reflection of the entire force.
“We are human beings too,” he added. “We ask Kenyans to respect our officers. The bad incidents do not define who we are.”
The warning follows claims that certain politicians have secretly paid groups of young men to attend protests under the guise of offering protection only for some of them to turn violent. While no names have been officially mentioned, the police say they’re looking into political links to recent unrest.
Nairobi Central police chief Stephen Okal, who met protest organisers over the weekend, promised that officers would provide adequate security during the upcoming demonstrations.
The June 25 protests are expected to take place in major cities, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and Nakuru. Organisers say the marches will be peaceful and focused on justice and remembrance.
Police have not banned the protests, but warn that any acts of looting, assault or property damage will be met with legal action.
