Motorists faced long delays on Tuesday morning after police mounted roadblocks across major roads leading into Nairobi. The operation came ahead of the planned Saba Saba demonstrations.
Traffic built up on several highways as officers stopped vehicles for security checks. Many commuters spent hours trying to access the city.
Major Roads Affected
Roadblocks disrupted traffic along Thika Road, Jogoo Road, Kiambu Road and Lang’ata Road. Police also mounted checkpoints on Outer Ring Road, Pangani Interchange and roads leading to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Other checkpoints appeared at Blue Post, Ruiru, Githurai and Allsops. Some passengers reportedly left vehicles and continued their journeys on foot.
Police Explain Security Operation
The National Police Service announced the enhanced security measures on Monday. It said the operation aims to prevent violence and protect lives and property during the Saba Saba anniversary.
Police urged motorists and pedestrians to cooperate with officers. The service warned that anyone engaging in unlawful activities would face legal action.
Dispute Over Planned Protests
The security operation follows calls for nationwide demonstrations on July 7. Organisers say the protests seek justice over alleged police killings, enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud declared the planned protests unlawful, arguing organisers failed to issue the required notification.
Human rights organisations rejected that claim. They insist they notified police in advance and maintain that the demonstrations will proceed as planned.
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