Shops Burned, Banks Vandalised as 27 Counties Tally Millions in Protest Losses

Kenya is currently assessing the extensive damage across multiple counties following widespread unrest that initially began as demonstrations advocating for justice. 

Authorities are increasingly highlighting the infiltration of these legitimate protests by criminal elements, leading to looting, arson, and significant disruption of services, leaving communities reeling from economic and social devastation. The most severely affected regions include Nakuru, Embu, Nyeri, Murang'a, Eldoret, Uasin Gishu, and Nyandarua. Once vibrant commercial and administrative centres now bear the visible scars of violence, with shattered storefronts, burned government buildings, and residents facing both economic hardship and psychological trauma.

In Nakuru, the lingering presence of tear gas serves as a stark reminder of the recent turmoil. Small business owners, who preemptively closed their establishments in anticipation of the unrest, found that their precautions were insufficient to prevent substantial losses. Maureen Kwamboka, a shop owner and single mother, describes how looters armed with stones and metal bars overwhelmed the city centre, with police officers allegedly standing by without intervening. 

A similar pattern of violence emerged in Molo town, where Eliud Mukiri, owner of Capitol Supermarket, recounts a violent assault on his business and person. He states that after he entered his business to assess the damage from earlier events, the initial protesters returned as a mob, physically attacking him before he could escape. Local leaders assert that law enforcement failed to adequately contain the escalating disorder. Charles Mariuko, head of the local business community, insists that the events evolved beyond legitimate protest, transforming into acts of terror and widespread looting that resulted in losses amounting to millions of shillings. 

In Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County, government infrastructure became a primary target. The offices of the assistant county commissioner and the education department were set ablaze, alongside a partial destruction of the Ol Kalou Police Station. Police Commander Stella Cherono says that investigations are currently underway to identify and apprehend those responsible. She urges protesters to avoid damaging public and private property, warning of accountability for those involved in destructive activities. Regional leaders from the Mt Kenya bloc have echoed these sentiments, condemning the "coordinated destruction" and appealing for calm and restraint.

Beyond government targets, commercial areas experienced significant losses. In Nyeri, looters forcibly entered Naivas Supermarket following sustained clashes with riot police. This attack followed unsuccessful attempts to breach Chieni Supermarket, which is owned by a local Member of Parliament and was defended by hired security and police. Subsequently, the looters targeted nearby businesses, including an eye clinic and a commercial bank.

A representative from Optex Optician and Eye Clinic confirms the theft of critical medical equipment, computers, and prescription eyewear. Meanwhile, an NCBA Bank branch sustained a break-in, resulting in the vandalisation of its ATM. Murang'a's transport sector estimates losses exceeding Sh30 million due to disruptions, vehicle damage, and service suspensions, according to Simon Kibe of the county's public transport union. 

Furthermore, attacks on private citizens, such as the mugging of 76-year-old Mariam Saidi, reflect a general decline in public safety. James Maina of the Hawkers' Association notes that while normal demonstrations typically conclude by 6 pm, the chaos continued well past midnight, indicating a breakdown in protest management. In Embu, the targeting of state institutions, including the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), has provoked heightened concern. 

Offices were vandalised and set on fire, with security personnel reportedly forced to retreat. A Safaricom retail outlet and National Bank branch were also overrun, with thieves using motorcycles to transport stolen electronics and furniture in broad daylight. Officials increasingly describe these disturbances as orchestrated by criminal networks exploiting public grievances. Embu County Commissioner Ronald Mwiwawi reports that a protest involving over 3,000 people devolved into chaos, with the crowd targeting buildings and engaging in confrontations with law enforcement.

In Eldoret City, police have arrested more than 70 individuals, including suspects linked to the burning of a police vehicle and the looting of a major supermarket. Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi indicates that court proceedings are imminent for those arrested. One protester has been confirmed dead following clashes along the Eldoret-Uganda highway.

Religious leaders from the North Rift region are calling for calm and urging the national government to engage in dialogue, especially with young people. They stress that while the grievances expressed are legitimate, they must not be overshadowed by violence and opportunistic criminal activity.