Running battles erupted in Mukuru Kwa Njenga as residents protested alleged unlawful evictions, prompting a heavy police response.
The Mukuru Community Justice Centre reported on Tuesday, January 20, that the evictions were carried out without prior warning, despite court orders intended to halt such actions.
The centre added that residents taking to the streets to protest are facing a severe security response, with police reportedly using rubber bullets and live ammunition in the densely populated settlement.
Running Battles Between Locals and Police as Protests Break Out in Mukuru Kwa Njenga. Photo: Courtesy.
Earlier, the Mukuru Community Justice Centre had warned that police were preparing to carry out evictions, reporting that a large number of masked officers were stationed at Villa Police Station to support the operation despite an existing court order prohibiting any evictions.
The Community Justice Centre condemned the ongoing evictions in the area, describing them as a violation of court orders and constitutional rights.
The organisation called for immediate adherence to the law and accountability for officials involved.
The evictions follow recent peaceful protests in Mariguini slum, South B, where residents opposed displacement for an affordable housing project.
Demonstrators marched, chanted, and lay on the road, causing minor traffic disruptions but no reported violence.
