Advertisement
Police chief Masengeli says Nairobi roadblocks meant to stop goons and dangerous weapons
25th June, 2026 12:18 PM
Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli has defended the security measures put in place across major Nairobi roads during the June 25 memorial protests, saying the roadblocks were intended to keep out criminals and individuals carrying dangerous weapons.
Speaking on Thursday, June 25, 2026, Masengeli dismissed claims that police had erected barriers to stop Kenyans from participating in peaceful demonstrations, insisting that the primary objective was to ensure the safety of protesters and the public.
“Hakuna vizuizi jambo tu ni kwamba, ni kuhakikisha wale wanandamana wanalindwa vizuri na wale wanania mbaya hawaingiani na wao,” Masengeli said.
According to the police boss, officers stationed at various checkpoints were conducting vehicle inspections to screen for weapons and other dangerous items that could be used to disrupt the demonstrations.
“Ukiona gari inasimamishwa na inaangaliwa wanataka kuona wamebeba silaha, wamebeba kitu mbaya ama wako na vitu gani? ni hiyo tu nani kazi ya polisi,” he explained.
Masengeli reiterated that police have a duty to protect both demonstrators and non-participants, noting that while citizens have a constitutional right to protest, they must do so within the law and respect the rights of others.
“Sisi kama polisi ni kuhakikisha usalama wa kila mmoja wetu kwa sababu everyone has got a right but your right should not suspend other peoples’ right so I will request each and every one to reamin confined within the law as per the law,” Masengeli stated.
Roadblocks and checkpoints were mounted on several major roads leading into Nairobi, including sections of Thika Road, Waiyaki Way, Lang’ata Road, Mombasa Road, Jogoo Road and other key entry points into the city.
Peaceful memorial demos
The Deputy Inspector General also expressed satisfaction with the conduct of demonstrators, noting that businesses and members of the public had not experienced destruction of property.
“Wananchi wako salama wanaendelea na kazi kama kawaida, alafu nimeshukuru kila mtu anaheshimu haki ya mwengine naona hakuna gari ya mtu inachomwa, hakuna pikipiki ya mtu inachomwa,” he added.
Masengeli further affirmed that police would continue providing security to demonstrators as required by law, noting that organisers had formally notified authorities about the protests and their objectives.
“Peaceful demonstration, sheria inasema wewe useme unataka kudemonstrate kwa sababu gani na leo tumejua kwa sababu wali present.Hatuna neno tutawalinda,” he said.
