Police in Meru County arrested five youths on Thursday morning for allegedly attempting to cause chaos as Kenyans marked the second anniversary of youth-led anti-government protests that claimed dozens of lives and left many others injured.
Business activities remained subdued across Meru Town, with many shops and commercial premises closed as residents adopted a cautious approach amid heightened security.
A spot check by the Kenya News Agency established that police officers had been deployed in large numbers across Meru Town, Gakoromone, Gitimbine, Nkubu, and Makutano to maintain law and order and prevent any disruption.
At Soko Mjinga market, trader Agnes Karoki said business had been significantly affected, with very few customers turning up.
Karoki said she normally earns about Sh2,000 daily but had only made sales worth Sh150 by mid-morning, making it difficult to meet her daily financial obligations.
Imenti North Sub-County Police Commander (OCPD) Ambrose Kyalo confirmed the arrest of the five youths who allegedly attempted to disrupt peace earlier in the day.
Kyalo said security had been reinforced across the county, with additional police officers deployed to strategic locations to ensure residents conducted their daily activities without interference.
“We have deployed enough officers in all parts of the town and its environs to ensure citizens go about their daily activities peacefully,” he said.
He added that those arrested would be processed through the legal system and urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and continue observing the law as security officers monitored the situation.
By Muguongo Judy
