Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has criticized the weekly youth protests, describing them as increasingly dominated by individuals intent on causing harm.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, Kanja accused these individuals, whom he referred to as “goons,” of being motivated solely by the desire to vandalize and steal from innocent and hardworking Kenyans.

He blamed the organizers for not adhering to the legal requirements outlined in the Public Order Act.

Kanja emphasized that the current chaos could have been avoided if the organizers had followed legal protocols. “This state of disorder would have been completely avoidable had the protesters complied with the Public Order Act, which mandates that organizers notify the police or relevant authorities in advance, as stipulated by the constitution,” he said.

The briefing took place ahead of the anticipated protests where youth groups had planned to occupy Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Kanja issued a stern warning that JKIA is a protected area, and anyone attempting to trespass will face legal consequences. He referred to the Protected Areas Act Cap 204, which restricts entry into designated protected zones.

“The Service reiterates that protected areas are off-limits to unauthorized persons, as stated in the Protected Areas Act Cap 204 of the Laws of Kenya. Anyone who violates this will be dealt with according to the law,” Kanja said.

He also highlighted Section 58 of the Kenya Civil Aviation Act No. 21 of 2013, which criminalizes trespassing on government or licensed airfields, with offenders subject to legal penalties.

Kanja urged the public to stay vigilant in crowded areas and to report any suspicious activities that could lead to crime during protests. “We call on the public to remain alert and share any information that could help us in detecting and preventing crime. We must distinguish between legitimate protesters and those intent on criminal activities. Those who break the law will face swift, firm, and decisive action in accordance with the law,” he stressed.

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