MOMBASA, Kenya – Four activists were arrested on Tuesday in Mombasa during protests demanding justice for Albert Ojwang, a 31-year-old man who died in police custody, as nationwide calls for accountability against Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat continue to escalate.
The four—Mugambi Gichunge, Batuli Swaleh, Francis Auma, and Walid Sketty—were detained outside Mombasa Central Police Station, according to human rights defender and Vocal Africa CEO Hussein Khalid.
Khalid, who shared video footage of the arrests online, condemned the police action and demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the protesters.
“They are now even targeting baddies of Mombasa,” Khalid posted on X. “We demand their release.”
One video captured the moment a female protester—dressed in a black buibui and wearing a scarf in the colors of the Kenyan flag—was forcefully led away by uniformed officers.
They are now even targeting baddies of Mombasa.Those arrested so far in Mombasa and are being held at Central Police Station are: – Mugambi Gichunge – Batuli Swaleh (Ms) – Francis Auma – Walid SkettyWe demand their immediate and unconditional release.
Chaos in Nairobi
Meanwhile, in Nairobi’s Central Business District, chaos erupted as police officers clashed with hundreds of demonstrators taking part in the #JusticeForOjwang protests.
Officers lobbed tear gas canisters at crowds, sparking panic and a tense standoff near the Kencom area.
The situation grew more volatile when a convoy of unidentified men on motorbikes stormed the CBD, shouting down the protests and vowing to block any demonstration efforts.
Witnesses described the motorbike riders as suspected hired goons allegedly deployed to disrupt the protests.
The group’s arrival triggered confusion and violence, with one journalist reporting a foot chase through the city centre.
Prominent activist Hanifa Adani was also reportedly assaulted by the group.
Goons have infiltrated town and are stealing from people. They’re on Bodas masked and are carrying weapons. The police, the real criminals are enabling them
