Police in Nairobi have reported that at least 20 officers were injured and three police cars were damaged during protests that took place in different parts of the city on Monday.
The police headquarters disclosed that Kawangware, Huruma, Makongeni, and Dandora were among the areas where the chaos was witnessed.
The protests, which were called to denounce the high cost of living, turned violent, resulting in a police car being set ablaze and two others being damaged. Police officers were also attacked by the protesters, who threw stones and other objects at them.
According to police reports, the first incident occurred in the Kawangware Muslim area, where 13 police officers were hit by stones and other objects as they attempted to disperse a group of protesters led by Azimio La Umoja leaders.
The group, which was being led by Raila Odinga, Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Jeremiah Kioni, and George Wajakoya, had arrived in the area when anti-riot police emerged and attempted to disperse them using water cannons and teargas canisters.
The chaos left many supporters injured and the police retreated, leaving the convoy to leave towards Ngong Road and later into Kibera slums.
Police disclosed that they spent 41 live ammunitions during the chaos and arrested three suspects, while the injured officers were treated and discharged.
Inspector General of police Japhet Koome later said the protests were illegal and banned, attracting condemnation. Most shops remained closed for the better part of Monday as the owners feared looting cases. The police say they are investigating the chaos.
