Motorcycle torched, rider clobbered as protesters clash with goons in Nairobi CBD

At least one motorcycle was torched and its rider injured after protesters clashed with suspected goons who stormed Nairobi’s Central Business District on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.

Protesters cornered a young man who was among a group riding on about 30 motorbikes, beating him senseless and leaving him for dead.

The riders had reportedly begun attacking demonstrators demanding justice for the late teacher and social media influencer, Albert Ochieng’ Ojwang’, who died in police custody on June 7.

Several individuals riding motorcycles had entered the CBD in what appeared to be an attempt to disrupt the ongoing protests, but were met with resistance.

Hundreds of boda boda riders moved through the city, some carrying up to four pillion passengers, and appeared to be deliberately intimidating the demonstrators.

They took over key roads in the city centre, including Kenyatta Avenue, Moi Avenue, and Tom Mboya Street, seemingly to scuttle the Gen Z-led protests over Ojwang’s death.

It remains unclear who mobilised the large group of youths, but they seemed intent on countering the demonstrations taking place across the capital.

Many of the suspected goons were wearing heavy clothing and face masks, making it difficult for onlookers and authorities to identify them as they caused panic and forced people to flee.

Despite their presence, protests broke out across the CBD, with Kenyans demanding justice for Ojwang.

Police responded by lobbing tear gas at protesters gathered at various locations, as Gen Z demonstrators called for accountability in the teacher’s death.

Protesters continue to demand the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.

Although Lagat stepped aside on Monday, June 16, 2025, pending investigations, a section of the public insists that a temporary withdrawal is not enough and is calling for his full resignation.

On Moi Avenue, police were seen dispersing protesters near the National Archives and Kencom areas.

A heavy police presence has been deployed throughout the CBD following last week’s protests, during which several businesses were looted by opportunistic criminals.

In the busy Tom Mboya, Luthuli, and River Road areas, anti-riot officers remain on patrol as residents and traders remain vigilant to prevent a repeat of last week's chaos.