BREAKING: 8 Killed, Over 400 Injured as Kenyan Police Crack Down on Nationwide Protests

Nairobi, Kenya — At least eight people have been killed and over 400 injured as mass protests erupted across Kenya on Wednesday, prompting a violent crackdown by security forces. Human rights groups and medical officials report that many victims suffered gunshot wounds, with some in critical condition.

The unrest began in the capital, Nairobi, and quickly spread to at least 23 counties, as thousands took to the streets to mark the one-year anniversary of the 2024 tax protests, which saw Parliament briefly stormed amid public outrage over rising living costs and governance failures.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos in central Nairobi and Kisumu, where police deployed tear gas and live ammunition to disperse demonstrators. Videos circulating on social media show armed officers firing directly into crowds and dragging wounded civilians from protest hotspots.

 “We’re mourning the dead while fighting for the living. This brutality must stop,” said protest leader Sheila Mwende, speaking from a medical camp in Nairobi treating dozens of injured youth.

According to the Kenya Medical Association, at least 406 people have been treated for injuries, many with trauma from rubber bullets, batons, or live rounds. Local hospitals have been overwhelmed, with emergency responders calling for urgent blood donations and medical supplies.

The protests were reignited by the recent death of popular blogger Albert Ojwang, who reportedly died in police custody on June 8 under suspicious circumstances. His death has become a symbol of what critics call a pattern of state-sponsored violence and impunity.

In a statement, Kenya’s Interior Ministry confirmed that 63 people have been arrested across the country for participating in what it termed “unauthorized assemblies.” However, civil society groups condemned the crackdown as excessive and unconstitutional.

 “This is a massacre in the making,” said George Kegoro, Executive Director of the Kenya Human Rights Commission. “Kenyans have the right to peaceful assembly. The government is responding with bullets instead of dialogue.”

While President William Ruto has yet to publicly address the killings, opposition leaders and international observers have called for an immediate investigation into the conduct of Kenyan security forces.

Protests are expected to continue through the week as demonstrators demand justice for the victims, the resignation of top security officials, and the repeal of repressive policies.

Developing Story…

More updates to follow as the situation unfolds.