Police arrest eleven in attempted fuel protests in Nairobi

At least 11 people who were part of a group that attempted to stage a protest in Nairobi over the rising cost of fuel were taken into custody.

Anti-riot police confronted and dispersed the group as it tried to march towards the city centre from the Archives area.

They were placed in a waiting vehicle and held at Central Police Station.

Nairobi police commander Issa Mohamud said officers were engaging the group as part of efforts to maintain order.

He said the city remained calm for most of the morning.

“From all corners, I can say the city is calm. We have taken in a few people who tried to disrupt peace here near the Archives,” he said.

"Uchumi iendelee, amani iendee, there is nothing to worry. So far we have arrested 11, and we will take them to court tomorrow to be charged. 98% of the businesses are up....mpende nchi yenu," he added.

Police headquarters indicated that most parts of the country remained calm. Most motorists avoided Nairobi city out of concern over possible disruptions.

The demonstrations were being mobilised online, and there was no clear leadership.

Police also denied reports that parts of Mombasa Road had been blocked in the Mlolongo area.

Head of DCI in the Eastern region, Michael Sang, said movement in the area was normal.

He added that the region remained secure and traffic was flowing smoothly.

“There is a normal flow of traffic from Mombasa to Mlolongo and beyond,” he said.

Morning rains in Nairobi affected the planned demonstrations linked to concerns over the rising cost of fuel.

Dozens of police officers were deployed across various urban areas to respond to any such activity.

Police commanders in Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nyeri and other major towns said operations remained calm by midday.

More to follow