Written by Lisa Murimi
The National Police Service (NPS) has disowned a widely circulated notice claiming over 100 foreigners were arrested during recent anti-government protests.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, July 7, the NPS flagged the document as fake, warning the public against spreading misinformation.
The statement, which mimicked an official police communication, alleged that 122 foreigners of various nationalities were detained during two recent protests—including 26 Burundians, 19 South Sudanese, and 18 Rwandans.
“This press statement circulating on social media, purporting to be issued by the Spokesperson of the National Police Service, is fake,” the police clarified.
Despite the forged document bearing the NPS logo, matching font styles, and a fake signature of Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, it was never published on the service’s official platforms.
The spread of the fake notice follows a separate incident in Nakuru’s London area, where a viral video showed a machete-wielding immigrant confronting police during the June 10 protests.
The suspect, later identified as a Ugandan national, was arrested and is facing multiple charges, including robbery, incitement, and illegal stay.
However, police have not confirmed the arrest of any other foreigners in connection to the ongoing demonstrations.
Since the nationwide June 25 protests, authorities have intensified crackdowns in various counties including Nairobi, Nyandarua, and Embu. Several youths have been arrested over alleged looting and public disturbance.
Among those detained were three human rights activists, sparking public outrage and calls for their release. The trio was freed on Ksh200,000 cash bail each and is scheduled to appear in court on July 23.
The police continue to urge the public to verify information through official channels to avoid the spread of fake news.
