The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has revealed that a coordinated group was behind acts of violence witnessed during the June 25 Gen Z protests in the Nairobi Central Business District and other parts of the country. While many demonstrators participated in the event peacefully, exercising their constitutional right to assemble and express themselves, the DCI disclosed that a faction infiltrated the protests with the deliberate intention of causing chaos and targeting public institutions.
According to the investigative agency, intelligence gathered before and after the protests indicated the presence of organised criminal elements who were ferried into the city. These individuals allegedly received specific instructions to attack government buildings and security installations. Some were transported in unmarked vehicles from locations now being probed by security agencies.
The situation escalated into violent confrontations, during which government property was damaged and several items, including firearms and police equipment, were looted. Authorities confirmed that some of the stolen weapons were later used in a series of violent robberies, including incidents reported near Naivasha Police Station the night following the protests.
The DCI expressed deep concern over the scale and planning behind the infiltration, warning that such actions compromise public safety and threaten national stability. In response, the agency has launched thorough investigations to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in orchestrating the attacks.
In addition to the destruction of property, the protests had a human toll. The DCI acknowledged the loss of lives during the demonstrations and extended condolences to the bereaved families. It was confirmed that at least 11 police officers sustained serious injuries while attempting to maintain order and protect peaceful demonstrators.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to upholding the right to peaceful protest but emphasized that criminal acts disguised as civil demonstrations would not be tolerated. The DCI stressed the need to separate legitimate activism from acts of violence that endanger lives and undermine the rule of law.
As investigations continue, security agencies are working to trace the origins of the organized group and the individuals who facilitated their operations. The DCI has called on members of the public to support efforts by sharing credible information that could aid in the identification and arrest of the culprits.
The agency assured the public that all those found responsible for inciting or participating in the attacks will face the full force of the law, and efforts are underway to recover the stolen weapons and prevent further misuse.
