At least 11 people were arrested in Nairobi on Tuesday after police moved to disperse demonstrators protesting rising fuel prices, authorities said, as tensions over the cost of living continue to simmer across Kenya.
Among those detained was activist Julius Kamau, who was picked up during a brief protest in the central business district CBD.
The demonstrators had gathered in small groups to voice frustration over recent increases in fuel costs, which have triggered renewed public anger in recent weeks.
The arrests took place near the National Archives, a common rallying point for protests in the capital. Anti riot police quickly moved in to break up the gathering, dispersing protesters before the demonstration could grow in size.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud confirmed that 11 individuals had been arrested and were being processed at nearby police stations. He said officers acted to prevent disruption to public order and ensure normal operations within the city.
Police maintain tight security across Nairobi
Heavy police presence was visible across major streets in the CBD, with officers deployed at key junctions and public spaces. Despite the heightened security, pedestrian and vehicular traffic continued largely uninterrupted, and businesses remained open.
According to a midday security update, protest activity in Nairobi remained minimal and largely contained. Authorities maintained a sustained deployment of officers to deter further mobilization and prevent escalation.
Outside the capital, only isolated incidents were reported. In Kirinyaga County, a small bonfire was lit in Mwea Town, but there were no significant disruptions to daily activities.
In Makueni County Emali Town, police presence was increased as a precautionary measure, though no demonstrations were recorded. A similar situation was observed in Mlolongo in Machakos County, where calm prevailed despite heightened vigilance.
Security agencies said they would continue monitoring developments closely, particularly in urban centers where protest calls have been circulating on social media.
The demonstrations come against the backdrop of growing public discontent over high fuel prices, which have had a ripple effect on transport costs and the broader cost of living. Many Kenyans say the rising expenses are straining household budgets and affecting small businesses.
Calls for protests have intensified online under hashtags such as #RejectFuelPrice, with activists urging the government to review pricing mechanisms and provide relief to consumers.
While Tuesday protests remained small in scale, analysts say they reflect deeper economic frustrations that could trigger larger demonstrations if left unaddressed.
Authorities have urged citizens to express grievances through lawful channels, warning against unauthorized gatherings that could disrupt public order.
As of Tuesday evening, the situation in Nairobi and other parts of the country remained calm, with security agencies maintaining a visible presence to prevent further unrest.
