Police officers stationed to guard against protesters entering Nairobi’s Central Business District via Waiyaki Way were seen speeding off after a massive crowd surged towards them. The incident, captured on Citizen TV’s YouTube live feed, has sparked widespread discussion and concern.
The video footage reveals the moment when the officers, initially standing firm, were forced to retreat as the protesters advanced in overwhelming numbers. The officers quickly abandoned their posts, jumping into their vehicles and speeding off, leaving the demonstrators to continue their march.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with protesters chanting and waving placards as they moved forward. “It was like a tidal wave of people; the police didn’t stand a chance,” said one onlooker.
The ongoing demonstrations, driven by various socio-political grievances, have seen tensions escalate in recent days. Authorities had deployed additional forces to key access points to prevent the demonstrators from disrupting daily activities in the CBD.
This incident has raised questions about the preparedness and strategy of law enforcement in handling large-scale protests. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how authorities will respond to the growing unrest.