Kenya's police open fire as tax protests turn violent in Nairobi
Wednesday June 26 2024
Police opened fire in Kenya's capital city of Nairobi in an attempt to stop demonstrators from entering a parliament compound on Tuesday (June 25), as protests against a bill to raise taxes descended into violence.
In chaotic scenes on the streets, plumes of black smoke rose against a backdrop of tall buildings in the capital city as police stood nearby holding shields and batons. Groups of people tried to carry others away, while some lay on the ground motionless, video obtained by Reuters showed.
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Kenyan President William Ruto said on Tuesday security was his "utmost priority" after the protests turned violent, with police firing on demonstrators trying to storm the legislature, killing at least five.
Police in Nairobi opened fire after tear gas and water cannon failed to disperse the crowds. They eventually managed to drive protesters from the parliament building and lawmakers were evacuated through an underground tunnel, local media said.