Police Arrest Dozens in CBD Protest Crackdown
Anti-riot police have locked down the Nairobi Central Business District and rounded up dozens of youth during the June 25, 2026, Gen Z memorial demonstrations. Specifically, confrontations broke out on the streets as security forces deployed tear gas to disperse crowds. Furthermore, the clashes resulted in several targeted arrests, including the brief and mistaken detention of a journalist.
The Security Lockdown
Authorities deployed overwhelming force across the city centre. Specifically, armed officers from the General Service Unit and Kenya Police cordoned off all major entry points using electric razor wire and barricades.
Furthermore, concrete blocks, heavy police trucks and tactical teams completely sealed off access to Parliament Buildings and State House. Additionally, police helicopters monitored the situation from above.
Business Brought to a Standstill
The lockdown hit Nairobi’s economy hard. Specifically, most retailers, banks and corporate offices inside the CBD remained closed as a precaution.
Furthermore, some traders deployed private, club-wielding vigilantes to protect storefronts from potential looting.
Transport Paralysis
The city’s transport network collapsed under the weight of early roadblocks. Specifically, checkpoints established as early as 2:00 AM cut off major highways including Waiyaki Way, Thika Road, Mombasa Road and Lang’ata Road.
Furthermore, PSVs were strictly barred from entering the CBD. Consequently, thousands of workers and commuters were forced to walk long distances or remain stranded.
Why Kenyans Are on the Streets
Today marks the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 anti-tax protests. Specifically, demonstrators historically breached Parliament on that date, after which security forces opened fire, killing over 60 people and injuring hundreds more.
Therefore, today’s memorial processions, mobilised under the social media campaign #SiriNiNumbers, aim to honour those victims and demand judicial accountability for police brutality.
