Kenyan police deploy LRAD sound cannons during Nairobi protests
via Tuko2 min read
Kenyan security agencies used Long Range Acoustic Devices LRADs, a crowd-control technology, during demonstrations in Nairobi on June 25. These devices project highly focused sound waves to influence crowd movement and were deployed to disperse protesters during Gen Z demonstrations against the 2024 anti-Finance Bill. Mounted on vehicles, LRADs were used to issue dispersal orders and emit piercing alert tones. This marked one of the first widely reported public uses of the technology in Kenya, sparking debate over safety and proportionality. LRADs are directional speakers that project clear voice messages or loud warning tones. They focus sound into a tight 30-degree beam, allowing communication from hundreds of meters away and emitting high-intensity tones. At close range, the volume can be louder than a jet engine, causing immediate pain, disorientation, headaches, and nausea. While marketed as a less lethal alternative, prolonged or close exposure can lead to permanent hearing damage, tinnitus, vertigo, and migraines. Peaceful bystanders, journalists, and officers can be affected, as demonstrated when Citizen TV journalist Immanuel Ndung'u was forced to take cover during a live broadcast. The legal use of LRADs is a grey area; in the United States, courts have ruled that using them at levels causing serious injury to non-violent protesters can be deemed excessive force.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
Must ReadFive of six protesters who went missing after their arrests on June 25 were found dumped by the roadside in Hurlingham on Saturday, June 27, and are now receiving hospital treatment. Amnesty International identified them as Collins Ochieng, Muteti Mulinge, Michael Ngigi, Elisha Alam, Fredrick Ojiro, and Christine Walubengo. They allege they were beaten and subjected to torture while in police custody. One protester, Davis Lichuma, remains missing, prompting urgent safety concerns. Amnesty International and other human rights groups are calling for an immediate, independent, and impartial investigation by the Independent Police Oversight Authority and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights into the allegations of torture and to hold those responsible accountable. They also demand that the National Police Service disclose Lichuma's whereabouts and ensure his safe release. The Kenya Human Rights Commission KHRC stated that efforts to report the disappearances at various police stations were rejected. The arrests occurred during the Gen Z anniversary protests, where 355 Kenyans were arrested nationwide, with most subsequently released. Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko paid KSh 1000 bail for 200 individuals arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts.
Must ReadThe National Police Service NPS has condemned the conduct of officers involved in the forceful arrest of a man with a disability during Gen Z anniversary protests in Nakuru on June 25. NPS spokesperson Munene Nyaga stated that the arrest breached established procedures and the service's code of conduct. The NPS emphasized its commitment to professionalism, human rights, and adherence to the Constitution of Kenya, noting that the arresting officers failed to follow Standard Operating Procedures and legal safeguards for suspects' dignity and rights. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered the Internal Affairs Unit to conduct a thorough investigation within seven days, promising appropriate action based on the findings. The NPS reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy towards brutality, misconduct, and actions that undermine public trust, urging public cooperation and providing emergency contact numbers for information related to the investigation. The man arrested was identified as activist James Thuku Mbugua, who was reportedly thrown to the ground and had his crutches discarded by officers before being held at Nakuru police station.
Must ReadFormer Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko paid KSh 200,000 cash bail for approximately 200 protesters arrested during the June 25 Gen Z anniversary demonstrations. The protesters were charged with obstruction and released on KSh 1,000 cash bail each by Milimani Chief Magistrate Teresia Nyangena. Sonko stated his intention was to ensure the young Kenyans could reunite with their families while awaiting their court dates. He also assisted a female protester with an infant, offering to buy diapers and essential items. The Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed 355 arrests nationwide during the protests, with 161 in Nairobi, 123 in Kajiado, and 36 in Kiambu. Concerns remain for six missing protesters, identified as Davis Lichuma 'Diffe', Elisha Alam, Collins Ochieng, Frederick Odhiambo Ojiro, Muteti Mulinge, and Michael Ngige 'Kenyatta', who were reportedly arrested but not arraigned. Activists and human rights groups are demanding their release.