How Many Were Injured in the Protests?
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen reported that 300 police officers were injured during the youth-led anti-government protests that swept across Kenya on Wednesday. Speaking during a press briefing, he confirmed that a total of 400 people sustained injuries, 300 officers and about 100 civilians.
“There are 300 police officers who were injured, and about 100 civilians. So a total of 400 people were injured,” Murkomen said.
He linked the attacks on security officers and the invasion of police stations to a broader strategy by alleged “coup plotters” aiming to destabilize the country.
What Was the Target of the Protest Violence?
According to Murkomen, police stations across specific constituencies appeared to be deliberate targets. He suggested that the goal was to send a message that the national authority had collapsed.
“From yesterday’s protests, there is a particular pattern and in particular constituencies where police stations are being targeted… I suspect the burning of police stations was supposed to help the coup plotters make a statement that there is no country and that there is no authority,” he explained.
He added, “That is why you see they want the guns and police uniforms to show that the uniform is degraded so that there is no authority in the country. That is the entire mission of what happened yesterday. We will take firm action to ensure the nation is in safe hands.”
What Has the Police Leadership Said About the Situation?
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja echoed Murkomen’s remarks and praised the police for maintaining order during the chaos.
“We appreciate our brave police officers who did a sterling job yesterday by ensuring our country remained secure despite the many challenges that were there,” said Kanja.
He acknowledged that some officers had suffered life-threatening injuries and assured them of continued government support.
“I wish the over 300 officers who got life-threatening injuries and quick recovery, and state that we will stand with them. We will stand with them and we appreciate the work they do,” Kanja added.
Addressing those who infiltrated the protests to commit crimes, the IG delivered a clear warning: “We are coming for you and you must have your day in court so that you can be able to answer for your criminal activities.”
By Yockshard Enyendi
