Co-operative Bank has confirmed that two of its branches were affected during Wednesday’s anti-Finance Bill protests, with one ATM in Githurai forcefully tampered with as demonstrations swept through parts of Nairobi and other towns.

The incident occurred as thousands of youth-led protesters, widely referred to as Gen Z, took to the streets to mark the one-year anniversary of the deadly 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.

In a statement released on Thursday, the bank said the Githurai ATM was damaged during the unrest, with initial reports suggesting that over one million shillings may have been looted. The Dagoretti Market branch was also affected but did not suffer the same level of disruption.

However, Co-op Bank clarified that the actual cash loss was minimal and confirmed that no injuries occurred among staff or customers. “Repairs have commenced immediately, and both branches will be fully operational in the coming days,” the statement read.

Customers from the two branches were advised to access services through alternative Co-op Bank outlets or via mobile and online platforms.

The vandalism happened during a nationwide day of protest where demonstrators carried placards, held vigils, and demanded justice for those killed during the 2024 protests. The marches called for the immediate withdrawal of the Finance Bill, which protesters say will worsen the already high cost of living.

Protests were recorded in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, and other towns. While most were peaceful, parts of Nairobi—including Githurai—saw looting, vandalism, and confrontations with police.

Security agencies have launched investigations into the bank ATM tampering and other disturbances. Co-op Bank reassured its customers that safety remains a priority and that steps are being taken to maintain uninterrupted services.