Tension erupted at Githurai Junction along Thika Road after a vehicle was set on fire during heated protests linked to rising fuel prices. The incident unfolded as demonstrations by transport operators and residents continued to spread across several routes in the city.
Eyewitnesses reported that a white SUV was intercepted by a group of protesters before the situation quickly escalated. The vehicle was allegedly found carrying political materials associated with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), which intensified anger among the crowd.
According to accounts from the scene, the situation worsened after the vehicle’s owner allegedly made remarks linked to the phrase “Alisema TUTAM.” The statement is said to have provoked sections of the protesters, who interpreted it as a political provocation during an already volatile environment.
Moments later, the crowd surrounded the vehicle, forcing those inside to flee for safety. The SUV was then set ablaze in the middle of the road as chaos unfolded at the busy junction.
Thick black smoke was seen rising into the sky as the fire completely consumed the vehicle. Rocks and debris littered parts of the road as onlookers gathered, with some recording videos while others watched the incident unfold from a distance.
Traffic along Thika Road was temporarily disrupted as movement slowed down in the affected section. Traders and commuters were forced to avoid the area as tensions remained high.
The unrest comes amid nationwide protests by transport operators who are opposing recent fuel price increases, arguing that the high costs are affecting their livelihoods and daily operations. In some areas, the demonstrations have escalated into confrontations and incidents of property destruction.
By the time of publication, authorities had not issued an official statement regarding the incident, and investigations into the burning of the vehicle were yet to be confirmed.