Quickmart Supermarket has strongly denied widespread claims that people were killed inside one of its Nairobi CBD branches during the June 25 protests.
In a statement released on Thursday, the supermarket chain clarified that two of its branches — one located at OTC and another in Ruiru — were broken into during the demonstrations. However, the company firmly stated that no deaths or injuries occurred at either location.
The clarification followed disturbing online reports suggesting that police officers were retrieving bodies from the OTC outlet.
These claims were fueled by images showing police forces stationed outside the store in downtown Nairobi, prompting fears that staff members, customers, or even protestors might have been harmed during the chaos.
Quickmart assured the public that everyone at their branches was safe, emphasizing that the safety of their employees, clients, and the surrounding community remains their highest priority.
“Quickmart confirms that two of our stores — OTC and Ruiru — were impacted by the demonstrations that occurred yesterday,” part of the official statement read.
“However, contrary to the false reports circulating on social media platforms, we would like to make it absolutely clear that there were no deaths or injuries involving our staff, customers, or anyone else at either of the affected locations.”
Following the incidents, Quickmart announced that it is working on restoring normal operations at the two branches. The retailer also urged its customers and staff to remain patient and continue supporting them as they implement recovery measures.
In the meantime, the supermarket advised customers who frequent the OTC and Ruiru stores to use their nearest alternative Quickmart branches for shopping and services until the affected outlets are fully reopened.
The statement comes just hours after social justice activist Hanifa Adan raised public concern online after receiving multiple messages from demonstrators gathered near the OTC branch.
On X (formerly Twitter), Hanifa posted, “What’s going on at Quickmart? Goodness,” attaching screenshots of messages sent by protestors who were alarmed by the heavy police presence outside the supermarket.
In four of the messages shared, demonstrators expressed fears that authorities were covering up possible deaths inside the store. They claimed police officers had forcefully pushed them away from the area and refused to let them get close to the premises.
One of the messages went as far as alleging that at least 30 bodies were being removed from the building and that those trying to confirm the information were being blocked from entry.
These rumors came in the wake of a statement by Amnesty International Kenya confirming that a total of at least 16 people had lost their lives during the nationwide protests on June 25.
The demonstrations were held to mark one year since the 2024 anti-finance bill protests that had sparked widespread civil unrest across the country.
Quickmart’s firm denial aims to stop the spread of misinformation and bring clarity during a tense and emotional moment in Kenya’s capital. The retailer promised to continue cooperating with authorities to ensure the safety of all and resume normal service as soon as possible.
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