11 people have been confirmed dead in the aftermath of the Saba Saba protests on July 7, 2025.
In a statement on Monday, July 7, 2025, police confirmed that 52 police officers had been injured during the protests as compared to 11 civilians who have sustained injuries.
Further, 12 police vehicles, three government vehicles and four civilian vehicles have been damaged.
A total of 567 people have been arrested in connection with crimes committed during the protests, including looting of shops and businesses.
“The National Police Service (NPS) wishes to update the public following today’s protests, dubbed “Sabasaba”. NPS commends the majority of Kenyans for being law-abiding and heeding the call to maintain law and order. However, certain individuals remained determined to engage in acts of lawlessness that involved multiple criminal acts, including attacks on law enforcement officers and looting,” NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga stated.
“Regrettably, preliminary reports indicate fatalities, injuries, damage to motor vehicles, and several incidents of looting as detailed below.”
Among those arrested is Gitonga Mukunji, MP for Manyatta Constituency.
“Each reported incident will be subject to further investigation, in accordance with the law. The NPS also commends its officers for demonstrating exceptional restraint and professionalism in the face of sustained violence and provocation by criminals who infiltrated the protests and encourage anyone with information about individuals involved in criminal activities who are still at large to come forward and share that information by reporting to the nearest police station or contact us via our toll-free numbers: 999, 911, 112, or #FichuakwaDCI (0800 722 203),” Nyaga added.
“NPS remains steadfast and resolute in serving and protecting all Kenyans, residents, visitors, and their property by ensuring that all reported cases are thoroughly and expeditiously investigated to bring those responsible to justice.”
In a statement after the Saba Saba chaos, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen regretted that peaceful demonstrations have recently been infiltrated by criminals out to cause chaos and destruction.
“Saba Saba commemorates a turning point in our country’s journey to multi-party democracy, order and better governance. Kenyans have the right to mark the day in peace and decency. This evening, I went around Nairobi City to thank our law enforcement officers who were on duty to ensure the safety of our people and the security of their property,” Murkomen stated.
“Thanks to their efforts and other officers across the country, incidents of violence, looting and destruction of property were markedly reduced today compared to last week. We’re committed to ensuring that demonstrations and protests are peaceful and orderly. The criminals who wreaked havoc on the June 25th demonstrations have already been charged in court.”
Murkomen has promised that those responsible for today’s incidents will also be investigated and charged.
“While the inconvenience faced in accessing places of work today is regrettable, the heightened security measures were necessary to ensure the safety of our people and the security of their property and businesses.”
Read: The History and Significance of Saba Saba in Kenya
>>> Media Council Condemns Violence Against Journalists Covering Kenya Protests
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