Residents and motorists in Githurai 45 experienced tense moments after chaos broke out along sections of the Thika Superhighway when a group of youths blocked parts of the road, disrupting the normal flow of traffic.
The situation unfolded as the youths erected barricades using stones and other objects before lighting bonfires on the busy highway.
The actions caused major inconvenience to motorists, with some drivers slowing down significantly while others sought alternative routes to avoid the affected sections of the road.
As tensions grew, police officers were deployed to the area in an effort to restore order.
Witnesses reported seeing both uniformed and plain-clothes officers operating around the Githurai 44 area. Some of the officers were riding motorcycles and wearing balaclavas as they pursued groups of youths who had gathered along the highway and nearby streets.
During the operation, police officers fired into the air and also used teargas canisters to disperse the crowds.
The sound of gunshots and teargas explosions created panic among some residents and road users, with many people rushing to move away from the affected areas.
Business activities in some sections were also disrupted as traders and customers sought safety.
Authorities intensified patrols in the area as they worked to clear the road and allow the smooth movement of vehicles.
The deployment resulted in at least one suspect being arrested.
The individual was later taken away in a Subaru Outback as officers continued their operations in the area.
The unrest comes at a time when concerns about security in Githurai have been growing among members of the public.
Some residents and motorists have questioned the speed and effectiveness of police responses following reports of robberies targeting both motorists and pedestrians in the area.
Several road users have expressed fears over their safety, especially during periods of heightened tension and heavy traffic.
By the time calm began returning to parts of the area, security officers remained on the ground to monitor the situation and prevent further disruptions.
Traffic movement gradually resumed along affected sections of the highway, although the events left many residents and commuters concerned about security and public order in one of the region’s busiest transport corridors.
