Nairobi police have issued a strong appeal for calm following a night of violent unrest in the Huruma estate, triggered by a fatal incident involving a local youth. According to preliminary police reports, the disturbance began after a young man was fatally shot during an alleged confrontation with officers on patrol late Tuesday evening.
Residents, disputing the police account, took to the streets in protest, alleging the killing was an act of unjustified force. The demonstrations quickly escalated into running battles with police, who deployed tear gas to disperse crowds. Several vehicles were damaged, and businesses were forced to shutter as rocks were hurled and barricades of burning tires blocked major roads in the area. The violence continued for several hours, with reports of looting emerging from some sections of the sprawling neighborhood, further inflaming tensions.
In a statement, the police spokesperson urged for restraint and promised a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the initial shooting. “We understand the community is in pain, but we urge everyone to allow the due process of the law to take its course. Violence and destruction of property will only worsen the situation and hinder justice,” the statement read. Community leaders have echoed the call for peace while demanding accountability and transparency from the authorities, highlighting the deep-seated tensions and frequent clashes over alleged police misconduct in Nairobi’s informal settlements. A tense quiet had returned by morning, with a heavy police presence remaining to patrol the streets.
