Kenyan police arrested 567 people on Monday during nationwide protests that spiraled into violence, the National Police Service announced.
Spokesperson Michael Muchiri said the demonstrations were marred by “acts of lawlessness,” including looting, destruction of property, and assaults on officers.
He described the offenders as individuals who were “determined to engage in multiple criminal acts” under the cover of public unrest.
Muchiri did not disclose the locations of the arrests or the identities of those detained but said investigations were underway.
“All incidents reported will be subjected to further investigation,” he said, promising accountability for those found guilty.
The protests, initially peaceful, reflected deepening frustration over economic hardship and growing public dissent toward government policies.
Images circulating online showed streets filled with tear gas, shattered storefronts, and heavily armed police dispersing crowds.
Rights groups have raised concerns about the government’s response, warning against excessive use of force and mass detentions.
The government has not yet issued an official statement addressing the underlying causes or proposing steps toward de-escalation.
As tensions simmer, Kenyans await clarity on how their leaders will navigate the crisis without further eroding public trust.
