The National Police Service (NPS) is facing intense criticism over its handling of anti-government protests in Nairobi on Tuesday, July 23.
The protests, which saw demonstrators clashing with police across various parts of the city, ended with contentious scenes that have sparked outrage among Kenyans.
One of the most controversial moments was captured in a video circulating on social media, showing a police water cannon being driven through the Pipeline area in Embakasi South Constituency.
The footage reveals the water cannon spraying chemically treated water into residential apartments, where protesters were taking refuge.
Another video further inflamed tensions by depicting police officers firing tear gas into residential houses, prompting dismay among Kenyans on X (formerly Twitter).
The footage shows the police employing methods typically reserved for crowd control in close proximity to homes, raising concerns about excessive force and disregard for civilian safety.
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has condemned the police over the same.
“Very sad. I lack words. Shame. Shame. Shame. Kenya Police Force you are out of line. Totally out of line. Shame on you,” the lawmaker said. “Residential areas should be out of bound for water canons; tear gas and live ammunition. You have gone overboard. STOP this abuse of power on innocent women and children.”
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