NAIROBI, Kenya- Police deployed a long-range acoustic device, commonly known as a sound blaster vehicle, to disperse opposition leaders and protesters attempting to march to Parliament during the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 anti-government protests.
Video circulating online showed the vehicle emitting a powerful, high-pitched sound as police blocked the procession near the heavily fortified Parliament precincts.
The device was used alongside a massive security deployment that included roadblocks, razor wire barricades and water cannons around key government installations.
Among those in the procession were Siaya Governor James Orengo, People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, former Chief Justice David Maraga and families of victims killed during the 2024 protests.
The group had planned to lay flowers and candles outside Parliament in memory of those who died during last year’s demonstrations.
Footage from the scene showed Orengo being escorted away from the area on a motorcycle by his security team after police dispersed the gathering.
A long-range acoustic device (LRAD), often referred to as a sound cannon or sound blaster, is designed to project extremely loud, focused sound over long distances.
Law enforcement agencies in several countries use the technology for crowd communication and dispersal, although its deployment during protests has attracted criticism from human rights organisations over concerns about potential hearing injuries if used at close range.
The security operation came as Nairobi remained under tight restrictions, with police erecting roadblocks on major routes into the city, barricading Parliament with razor wire and deploying heavily armed officers ahead of the anniversary commemorations.
Many businesses in the central business district remained closed amid fears of unrest.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen had said on Wednesday that intelligence reports indicated criminal groups intended to infiltrate the commemorative marches.
He maintained that police would facilitate peaceful demonstrations while taking firm action against anyone involved in violence, looting or destruction of property.
The June 25 commemorations mark two years since protesters breached Parliament during demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024, prompting a deadly police crackdown that left dozens dead and intensified calls for accountability over the use of force.