Nairobi Regional Commander Issa Mohamud has denied claims that police deliberately blocked residents from accessing the Central Business District on Monday.
Speaking to the press on the afternoon of July 7, Mohamud said the heavy police presence was to manage a tense situation shaped by past events, not to punish anyone.
He explained that officers were controlling access into the city, screening and verifying people before letting them proceed. "We do not deny anybody. But we control the access. After screening and sieving and verification, we release you to come forward," stated Mohamud.
He admitted the process took longer than expected due to the sheer number of vehicles and pedestrians, and police regretted any inconvenience caused. By evening, police confirmed Monday's protests had passed without any deaths, injuries, looting or theft. Officers made ten arrests, six in Pangani and four in the CBD, with all suspects due in court on Tuesday.
