By Andrew Kariuki

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued a strong warning against criminal activities during ongoing protests, cautioning Kenyans against turning demonstrations into violent and unlawful acts.

In a statement released after Monday’s nationwide protests linked to rising fuel prices and the high cost of living, the DCI emphasized that while the Constitution protects the right to peaceful assembly and expression, acts of violence and destruction remain criminal offences punishable by law.

The agency warned against looting, arson, blocking roads, destruction of property, attacks on police officers, assaults on motorists and any actions that endanger lives during demonstrations.

“While every Kenyan has the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression, acts of violence, looting, arson, road blockades, destruction of property, attacks on police or motorists, and any acts that endanger lives are serious criminal offences,” the DCI stated.

According to investigators, operations linked to Monday’s protests are still ongoing across the country, with hundreds of suspects already arrested.

The DCI confirmed that Nairobi recorded the highest number of arrests at 189, followed by Rift Valley with 259 suspects, Eastern region with 103, Central region with 142, Western region with 10 and Coast region with seven arrests.

Authorities further revealed that many of the suspects had already been arraigned in court on various charges connected to the demonstrations.

The agency also warned that individuals involved in organizing, financing, inciting or directly participating in criminal acts during protests would face legal consequences.

“No one is above the law. Individuals organising, financing, inciting, or participating in criminal acts will face the full force of the law,” the statement added.

The DCI urged members of the public to remain peaceful, cooperate with security agencies and report criminal activities through the #FichuaKwaDCI hotline.