Chaos in Kiamaiko, Kariobangi North as Families Protest Disappearances

Residents of Kiamaiko, Kariobangi North and Huruma staged protests in Nairobi on Tuesday over the disappearance of two young men, blocking sections of Outer Ring Road before police dispersed the crowds with tear gas.

The demonstrations brought traffic to a standstill after protesters placed stones and boulders across the road. Police later cleared the route by early afternoon. Witnesses also reported cases of robbery during the unrest, adding to tensions in the affected areas.

The protests centre on the disappearance of Abdulaziz Duba Molu, widely known as Zizo, a Huruma resident who has been missing for nearly a week. His family and local activists believe his disappearance is connected to the June 25 Gen Z memorial protests. 

Another young man, Maxwell Kiarie, has also been reported missing. Relatives and supporters of both men are calling on authorities to confirm whether they are in lawful custody or provide information on their whereabouts.

The latest demonstrations follow similar protests in Huruma last week, during which one person was killed and property was damaged as police responded to the unrest. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights says at least seven people have disappeared since the June 25 commemorations. 

One activist, Davis Lichuma, was later found alive and is receiving medical treatment, while several others remain missing. Police have said recent operations in Kayole, Umoja 3 and Kiamaiko are linked to a separate criminal investigation.

Officers reported arresting six suspects and recovering two pistols, ammunition and other items believed to have been stolen from licensed firearm holders. Investigators allege that a group of women targeted revellers by spiking their drinks, stealing their firearms and passing them to accomplices.

According to investigators, forensic examinations linked the recovered weapons to incidents dating back to June 2024, including the theft of a Ceska pistol from a police inspector in Kamukunji. The timing of the police operations alongside the protests has increased mistrust among some residents, who accuse security agencies of linking criminal investigations to political dissent.

Nairobi police commander Issa Mohamud said investigations into the disappearances are continuing, but authorities have not provided further details.