Two individuals lost their lives on Tuesday after allegedly falling victim to mob justice during anti-government protests in Mlolongo, Machakos County.
The two are accused of being part of a group of suspected criminals, terrorizing locals and motorists along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway.
The protests, primarily led by the Gen Z community, initially aimed to express dissent against the government.
However, the demonstration took a violent turn when a group of individuals reportedly infiltrated the protest and began engaging in criminal activities.
According to Athi River East Subcounty Police Commander Anderson Mbae, the deaths occurred after the individuals were allegedly found stealing from the public, leading to their lynching by an angry mob.
“There were two reported deaths of unknown male adults who were victims of mob justice. They were lynched by demonstrators after they were allegedly found stealing from the public,” Mbae stated in an interview with a local publication.
In addition to the loss of life, the protests led to significant property damage in Mlolongo town. Among the affected properties were a Safaricom customer care shop and a local bar, both of which were vandalized by individuals posing as protesters.
“Property of unknown value was looted from the two businesses. We have no any other reported thefts or damages,” Mbae confirmed.
ALSO READ;