DCI Responds to Chaos Images from Maandamano Rally
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has been called to account for some of the images it released on Monday in connection with the ‘Maandamano’ protests led by the Azimio opposition coalition.
DCI released a series of images on social media on Friday, ostensibly unmasking the individuals it described as criminals who used the protests to destroy property and attack innocent members of the public and police officers on duty.
However, some of the images appear to be from previous protests, dating back to 2008.
Protesters are seen scampering for safety amid chaos in one of the images in question; however, a search of the image reveals that the image was taken during a protest in Burundi and was used in an Al Jazeera article titled “Hundreds arrested’ in Burundi amid political unrest’ in 2015.
Another image shows a man aiming a tear gas canister at an unknown target. However, the image appears to have been used for the first time in 2008. The photo, according to Taifa Leo, is from Getty Images and was first published on January 17, 20028.
The DCI has yet to state some of the images used.
The DCI announced on Friday that it had launched a manhunt for those responsible for Monday’s chaos.
According to the DCI, property of unknown value was destroyed during the Monday protests led by Azimio party leader Raila Odinga, while 33 officers were injured to varying degrees and are currently hospitalized.
“Criminals who took advantage of the protests were caught on camera destroying public property, attacking innocent members of the public, and hurling projectiles at police officers who were protecting life and property.”
ALSO READ: DCI Unmasks ‘Azimio Protests’ Violence Criminals, 33 Officers Hospitalised, AK47 Stolen.
“As a result, property of unknown value was destroyed, while a total of 33 officers suffered injuries of varying degrees, some of which are still being treated at various hospitals throughout the city,” said the DCI.
During the chaos, an AK47 rifle loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition was also reported stolen.
“A firearm with a magazine loaded with 15 rounds of 9mm caliber was also lost by one of our officers after he was attacked by a gang of a well-coordinated riotous mob while the officers were preventing the destruction of public property in the Embakasi area of Nairobi County,” DCI added.
Individuals captured in the shared images are required to surrender to the DCI headquarters or the nearest police station, according to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
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