Nairobi Police Commander Warns Protesters as 11 Arrested in CBD Fuel Price Demonstrations
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud has issued a fresh warning following protests that erupted in the Nairobi Central Business District over rising fuel prices.
The police confirmed that 11 individuals were arrested on Tuesday, April 21, during demonstrations linked to public anger over the recent fuel price increases announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
Speaking to journalists while conducting a security inspection in the Nairobi Central Business District, Commander Mohamud confirmed the arrests and stated that the suspects would be taken to court the following day to face charges. He emphasized that the situation in the city remains under control and urged the public not to panic.
According to him, most parts of the city have returned to normal operations, with business activity continuing without major disruption.
He noted that more than 98 percent of businesses in Nairobi CBD were open and operating, encouraging traders who had closed their shops due to fear of unrest to resume work.
“So far, we have arrested 11 individuals, and they will be taken to court tomorrow and charged accordingly.
There is nothing to fear. Peace and economic activity are fully restored. As you can see, about 98 percent of businesses are open and running,” Mohamud stated.
The protests were largely driven by frustration shared by many young people on social media, who had called for a mass demonstration against rising fuel costs.
Many Kenyans expressed concerns that the continuous increase in fuel prices is worsening the cost of living, making everyday essentials such as transport, food, and basic household goods increasingly unaffordable.
On Tuesday, a small group of protesters did take to the streets in Nairobi CBD. However, the turnout was significantly lower compared to previous demonstrations, and police maintained a strong presence to ensure order and prevent disruption of normal city activities.
Earlier, the police commander had dismissed the planned protests, terming them unlawful. He stated that authorities had not received any official notification from the organisers as required by law.
He further advised that any group intending to hold demonstrations must first engage the police and follow proper legal procedures before occupying public spaces.
During his visit to the CBD, Mohamud reported that the city was calm and functioning normally. He further argued that those attempting to disrupt business operations were interfering with public order and should be held accountable under the law.
He also raised concern over media coverage of the protests, accusing some outlets of reporting in a way that could cause unnecessary fear among the public. He urged journalists to maintain accuracy and responsibility in their reporting, especially when covering sensitive security situations.
“As media professionals, we must report responsibly and with love for the country. Let us avoid spreading fear among the public,” he added.
The situation in Nairobi remains closely monitored as authorities continue to warn against unauthorized demonstrations while urging calm amid ongoing public debate over fuel prices and the rising cost of living.
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