Police Dismiss Social Media Claims of Shooting in Mlolongo During Fuel Price Protests

Police Dismiss Social Media Claims of Shooting in Mlolongo During Fuel Price Protests

Police have dismissed claims circulating on social media alleging that a person was shot dead during the “Reject Fuel Prices” protests in Mlolongo, terming the reports as false and misleading.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 21, officers sought to reassure the public that the situation in Mlolongo remained calm throughout the day, with no protests or confrontations reported.

“I am from Mlolongo and the situation is calm, no protests and nothing to worry about,” an officer said, dismissing the viral claims.

The clarification came after unverified reports spread online mid-morning suggesting that a fatal shooting had occurred during the anticipated demonstrations, triggering concern among residents over alleged police brutality and excessive use of force.

Authorities maintained that the claims were unfounded and urged members of the public to rely on verified information from official sources to avoid unnecessary panic.

Across several regions previously associated with protest activity, a similar picture of calm prevailed. In parts of Ngong Road, police reported normal business operations, with traders opening their shops and carrying out routine activities without disruption.

Likewise, in Kitengela and Eldoret, no major demonstrations were recorded, with traffic flowing normally and businesses operating as usual.

In the Rift Valley region, police issued a situational update indicating that most counties remained peaceful, with only isolated incidents reported in select areas.

“So far, the region remains calm. No demonstration has been reported in virtually all the counties except isolated cases in Molo and Naivasha, where a small group of youths attempted to block roads but were promptly dispersed,” the police said in a statement.

Authorities added that similar attempts at demonstrations in Kitengela were quickly contained, allowing normal operations to continue uninterrupted.

Despite the relative calm in most parts of the country, a different scenario was observed in the Nairobi Central Business District, where a small group of protesters gathered earlier in the day to demonstrate against rising fuel prices.

Police moved in to disperse the group, leading to the arrest of several individuals. Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud confirmed that 11 people had been detained in connection with the protests.

“So far, we have arrested 11, and we will take them to court tomorrow and charge them,” Mohamud stated.

The demonstrations were largely organised through social media, with participants expressing frustration over recent fuel price increases announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which have contributed to a rise in the cost of living.

While some businesses in Nairobi temporarily closed amid fears of unrest, a significant number remained open, with police reiterating that the capital was largely stable.

Officials emphasized that security agencies remain on high alert and continue to monitor developments across the country to ensure public safety and maintain order.

The police also urged the public to exercise caution when sharing information online, warning that the spread of unverified claims could heighten tensions unnecessarily.

As Kenya navigates growing economic pressures and public discontent linked to fuel prices, authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace while encouraging lawful and orderly expression of grievances.

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Police Dismiss Social Media Claims of Shooting in Mlolongo During Fuel Price Protests