Hundreds of men on motorbikes, armed with whips and clubs, violently attacked protesters in Nairobi on June 17, 2025, as they demonstrated against alleged extrajudicial killings.
The protests were sparked by the death of Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old teacher who died in police custody under suspicious circumstances.
Violent Attacks and Police Inaction
Eyewitnesses and video footage shared by local broadcaster NTV captured the mob shouting “No protest” as they dispersed the demonstrators.
Unknown people on motorbikes pour into Nairobi CBD shouting “hakuna maandamano!” pic.twitter.com/j6FAdur0Rm
— Daily Nation (@NationAfrica) June 17, 2025
At least ten people were injured, including a bystander—a street vendor—who was shot in the head by police. Protesters also faced tear gas and rubber bullets fired by law enforcement.
Ms Hanifa Adan, a prominent voice from 2024’s Gen Z-led protests, described how the attackers overwhelmed protesters:
“They cornered us and beat us with whips, and the police were just watching them do it.”
KNCHR Condemns Police and Hired Goons’ Brutality
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) released a statement condemning the police’s role in the violence, highlighting the deployment of masked hired goons who patrolled Nairobi on motorbikes, brutally attacking peaceful protesters and civilians with tyre whips, wooden bars, and other crude weapons. KNCHR Vice Chairperson Dr. Raymond Nyeris said:
“This is unacceptable conduct by the police who are required to discharge their duties professionally and provide security for all persons in Kenya without favour or bias. The conduct of the police not only takes Kenya back to the dark past but is a sure recipe for creating anarchy in the Country.”
The commission also condemned the arrest of peaceful protesters, including four human rights defenders in Mombasa, and called for their immediate and unconditional release.
KNCHR noted that many police officers violated a High Court ruling by concealing their identities with masks and hoods during the protests, further eroding public trust.
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Background: The Death of Albert Ojwang
Albert Ojwang was arrested on June 6 in Homa Bay for allegedly posting critical content about Deputy Police Inspector General Eliud Lagat on social media. He was transported some 400 kilometres to Nairobi and was found dead two days later in a police cell.
Police initially claimed Ojwang died after banging his head against the cell wall, but an independent autopsy revealed blunt force trauma, neck compression, and injuries consistent with assault.
In response, President William Ruto called Ojwang’s death “heartbreaking and unacceptable” and promised to “protect citizens from rogue police officers.”
Two senior police officers and a civilian have been arrested in connection with the case, and Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat has temporarily stepped aside pending investigations.
Wider Context of Police Violence in Kenya
The protests over Ojwang’s death reflect broader concerns about police brutality and impunity in Kenya.
Human rights groups report that more than 60 people were killed by security forces during demonstrations last year against a controversial financial bill.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) also reports over 20 deaths in police custody in the past four months alone.
Amnesty International Kenya condemned the use of militia-like groups to suppress protests, warning on X:
“The use of militia will escalate confrontation, lawlessness, and chaos.”
Ongoing Protests and Public Outcry
Protests continued on June 17 in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale counties, with demonstrators holding placards reading “Stop killing us.”
Despite violent crackdowns, the majority of protesters remained peaceful, demanding accountability and an end to police impunity.
The KNCHR urges the public to report human rights violations through their toll-free number, 0800 720627, or SMS 22359, pledging to continue monitoring the situation closely.
This wave of protests and the brutal response by police and hired thugs underscore the urgent need for reform within Kenya’s security forces and a firm commitment to uphold human rights and the rule of law.
The death of Albert Ojwang has become a rallying point against systemic abuses, shining a harsh light on police impunity that threatens Kenya’s democratic fabric.
