Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has criticized the weekly youth protests, stating they have become a refuge for troublemakers. In a press briefing on Tuesday, Kanja accused these individuals of being driven by a desire to vandalize and steal from innocent, hardworking Kenyans.
He blamed the organizers for not complying with the Public Order Act, which requires prior notification to the police. According to Kanja, the chaos could have been avoided if the protesters had adhered to legal requirements and informed authorities in advance.
Kanja issued a warning that JKIA is a protected zone and that anyone who attempts to trespass will face legal action. He highlighted that the Protected Areas Act Cap 204 of the Laws of Kenya forbids unauthorized access to designated protected areas. “Protected areas are off-limits to unauthorized individuals, as stated in the Protected Areas Act Cap 204,” Kanja noted, stressing that trespassers will be dealt with according to the law.
Additionally, he referenced Section 58 of the Kenya Civil Aviation Act No. 21 of 2013, which criminalizes trespassing on government or licensed airfields, subject to legal penalties. Kanja also urged the public to remain vigilant in crowded locations and to report any information that could assist the police in preventing and addressing crime related to protests.
“We encourage the public to stay alert and provide any relevant information to help us combat crime. We must ensure that lawbreakers are identified and dealt with promptly and effectively,” Kanja asserted.