Motorcycle riders storm Nairobi CBD in attempt to disrupt Ojwang protests

Hundreds of boda boda riders, some carrying up to four passengers, took over key roads such as Kenyatta Avenue, Moi Avenue, and Tom Mboya Street, creating fear among demonstrators and onlookers.
Several individuals on motorcycles have flooded Nairobi’s Central Business District in an apparent attempt to disrupt ongoing protests demanding justice for Albert Ojwang.
Hundreds of boda boda riders, some carrying up to four passengers, took over key roads such as Kenyatta Avenue, Moi Avenue, and Tom Mboya Street, creating fear among demonstrators and onlookers.
The group, believed to be goons, wore heavy clothing and face masks, making it difficult to identify them as they moved through the city centre.
Their presence appeared aimed at countering the Gen Z-led protests that continue across the capital, despite the tension and heavy police deployment.
Protests erupted after Ojwang, a teacher and social media influencer, died while in police custody.
Demonstrators have demanded justice and the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.
Though Lagat stepped aside on June 16, some protesters insist that a temporary withdrawal is not enough and want him to resign fully.
Police responded by firing teargas at gatherings along Moi Avenue near the National Archives and Kencom areas to disperse crowds.
Officers remain on patrol in busy locations like Tom Mboya, Luthuli, and River Road, where traders and residents are vigilant after last week’s looting and chaos.
At Kimathi Street near the National Centre, protesters paused to pray, sing the national anthem, and wave Kenyan flags, calling for justice.
One protester said, “We are pushing for the liberation of this country. We are looking for justice, Jehovah.” Police then fired teargas, breaking up the crowd and triggering clashes.
The demonstrations have also spread beyond Nairobi, with hundreds gathering in Mombasa demanding an end to extrajudicial killings. One protester carried a placard that read, “Stop killing us.”