DCI Publishes Photos of 38 Suspects as Anti-Finance Bill Protests Escalate.

The Directorate General of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has released images of 38 people suspected of committing criminal acts during the anti-Financial Bill protests. What started peacefully was marred by lawlessness as alleged troublemakers infiltrated the Gen Z-led protests, leading to widespread vandalism and looting.Businesses such as shops, supermarkets, restaurants, and food stalls were severely affected by the actions of these individuals, who posed as protesters.

The protests, especially those on June 25 and July 2, saw significant vandalism, robberies,, and arson of businesses and vehicles in major cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisii. The DCI called on the public to share any information leading to the arrest of the suspects through the Fichua Kwa DCI hotline, 0800-7222-03. Information can also be passed on through the police hotlines 999, 911, or 112.

“The individuals whose images appear below are wanted by the police for their unlawful activities during the anti-Finance Bill 2024 demonstrations. We advise them to report to the nearest police station for further action,” the DCI said

Speaking at a media roundtable on Sunday, President William Ruto said police would not disrupt peaceful protests but would take action against criminal elements.

“The Kenya Defence Forces will not be on the streets; they come only as a last resort. If demonstrations are peaceful, the police will protect the protesters,” he said.

“But the police will ensure that those who burn offices and loot property are dealt with. This is my commitment; everyone must operate within the law,” he added.

The DCI said detectives were deployed to arrest people seen on video footage attacking pedestrians during the protest.

“Anyone involved in criminal activities should know it is only a matter of time before the law catches up with them. Their felonious acts will be met with the full force of the law,” the DCI warned.

In a separate statement, Interior Minister Kindiki stressed the government’s determination to “stop dangerous criminal organizations at all costs.”

“The organizers of today’s violence in parts of Nairobi, Mombasa and other areas are planning to repeat their chaos and plunder on Thursday and Sunday and perhaps more frequently,” he said.

“The government is committed to stopping criminals who terrorize the public and harm Kenya, despite attempts to politicize crime,” he added.

The CS commended the police for their restraint during the riots despite provocation. He promised that all allegations of misconduct by police officers would be investigated and appropriate action would be taken.

The Kenya National Human Rights Commission reported on Monday that at least 39 people have been killed and 361 injured since protests against the Finance Bill began. But the president said the death toll was low as 19.

The protests against the Finance Bill 2024 began in response to the controversial legislation and sparked widespread public anger. While initially peaceful demonstrations included a diverse range of participants including Gen Z youth, intruders soon turned the protests violent resulting in vandalism, looting and arson.

Going forward law enforcement and government
responses will be key in addressing the ongoing situation. President Ruto’s strong stance on criminal activity during the protests underscores the government’s determination to uphold the rule of law while respecting the right to peaceful assembly. His assurance to deploy the Kenya Defence Forces only when absolutely necessary was aimed at balancing security concerns with civil liberties. Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki’s statement reflects the government’s broader strategy to prevent further violence and unrest. By praising the police for their restraint, Kindiki aims to allay concerns about possible abuses while maintaining public confidence in law enforcement.

His promise to investigate and prosecute all cases of misconduct by officials is aimed at ensuring accountability and transparency in the response to the protests. A report by the Kenya National Human Rights Commission highlights the severe impact of the protests which have resulted in numerous casualties.

The 2024 Finance Bill, which has sparked widespread public anger, will be carefully reviewed and may be amended to address protesters’ concerns. Dialogue with protest leaders and other stakeholders could be an important step in defusing tensions and finding a constructive way forward.

In addition to legislative measures, it will be important to address the root causes of the protests. This includes addressing the issues of economic inequality, unemployment and perceived government corruption that are fueling public discontent. By addressing these underlying issues, governments can restore public trust and prevent future unrest.

The protests against the 2024 Finance Bill have highlighted significant challenges and opportunities for the Kenyan government. The publication of images of suspects by the DCI statements by President Ruto and Home Affairs Minister CS Kindiki and the report of the Kenya National Human Rights Commission all highlight the complexity of the situation.