Quickmart Denies Dead Bodies Being Hidden at OTC Branch
Tension gripped Kenyans on Thursday after disturbing reports claimed police were collecting bodies at Quickmart’s OTC branch in Nairobi.
However, the supermarket chain swiftly dismissed the claims. In a statement issued just hours after the news broke, Quickmart strongly denied that any deaths occurred within its premises.
“Quickmart notes that two of our branches in OTC and Ruiru were affected during yesterday’s demonstrations,”
“Contrary to misleading information circulating on digital platforms, we wish to assure the public that no staff, customers, or any other individuals were injured or deceased at the two outlets.”
Quickmart Confirms Break-Ins but Denies Fatalities
The company confirmed that its OTC and Ruiru branches were broken into during the June 25 protests. Still, it clarified that no lives were lost and no one was harmed in the chaos.
Photos of police officers surrounding the downtown Nairobi outlet had fueled fears of a possible tragedy. Some social media users alleged that bodies were being removed discreetly by police from the supermarket.
“The security and wellbeing of our staff, customers, and community is always our top priority,”
“We are working closely with relevant authorities to resume normal operations.”
Panic Online After Viral Claims
Meanwhile, anxiety was amplified online by activist Hanifa Adan, who shared multiple messages from worried protesters near the OTC branch.
“What’s going on at Quickmart? Goodness,”
Hanifa posted on X, alongside screenshots of messages that hinted at a cover-up.
One user wrote they had seen over 30 bodies allegedly retrieved from the supermarket. Others claimed police blocked them from entering the building.
Protest Toll Rising: Amnesty Confirms Deaths
These claims emerged shortly after Amnesty International Kenya confirmed that at least 16 people had died across the country during the June 25 protests.
Quickmart Urges Calm, Offers Alternatives
In response to the disruptions, Quickmart encouraged customers from the affected branches to seek services from nearby outlets.
“We appeal for the support of our loyal shoppers and staff as we restore normalcy,”
the statement concluded.
The supermarket promised to provide updates as investigations and repairs continued.
ALSO READ: Gachagua Blames State for Orchestrated Violence and Looting in June 25 Protests
Quickmart Denies Dead Bodies Being Hidden at OTC Branch
