US Embassy Issues Alert Over Anti-Abduction Protests

US citizens in Kenya have been advised to exercise caution amid planned protests in Nairobi and other major cities on Monday, January 6.

In a demonstration alert, the US Embassy noted that while the protests were largely peaceful on Monday morning, the possibility of violence erupting could not be ruled out.

The embassy also warned its citizens of potential major traffic disruptions due to increased checkpoints, particularly on major roads in Nairobi.

“There have been calls for nationwide anti-government protests across Kenya on Monday, January 6, 2025. Demonstrations in central business districts across the country and potential road blockages of major thoroughfares are possible,” the statement read.

“Protests that appear peaceful can turn violent at any moment. Police checkpoints and traffic disruptions are to be expected,” the advisory stated.

Additionally, the embassy issued several safety recommendations for its citizens, with avoiding crowded places listed as a top priority.

US citizens were also advised to carry a copy of their passports along with their current Kenyan visas and to keep family and friends informed of their whereabouts at all times.

The advisory further urged individuals to keep car doors and windows locked, particularly when travelling through areas prone to protests.

On Monday, demonstrations were reported in several parts of the country, including Nairobi and Mombasa. While the protests were mostly peaceful, activists on social media reported a few arrests.

Videos obtained by Kenyans.co.ke also depicted hostility between plain-clothed officers and civilians, with the latter accusing the officers of maliciously targeting protestors.

This marked the second wave of anti-abduction protests, following a similar demonstration on New Year’s Eve.

Amid the protests, several young Kenyans who had been abducted since 1 December 2024 were reunited with their families, including popular social media personality Billy Mwangi.