Nairobi Expressway Shuts Down Amidst Protestor Damage
The operator of the Nairobi Expressway temporarily closed sections of the elevated roadway on Wednesday, July 12, after anti-government protesters vandalized some sections.
Moja Expressway announced the suspension of services at Mlolongo, Syokimau, and Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) toll stations as a result of the protests.
The operator assured in a statement that they are working to restore normalcy even as protests against the rising cost of living gain momentum.
On the highway, motorists have been instructed to depart at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) toll booth.
Before that, protestors vandalized the barrier and toll stations near Mlolongo, Machakos County, minutes earlier. In addition, transportation was paralyzed after the disruptive youth set fire to tires along the expressway.
Jeanne May Ong’iyo, manager of public relations for Moja Express, disclosed to GossipA2Z that the toll collectors were evacuated unharmed before the outbreak of chaos.
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She added that police officers dispatched to the area at the time were unable to fire live ammunition into the throng but were able to disperse the rowdy youth.
“The situation is under control and normalcy has been restored; police officers are on the scene and the move.”
She stated, “We cannot say exactly how long it will take for us to resume operations, but as soon as we do, we will issue a statement.”
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah was also angered by the situation; he blamed the Azimio coalition for the pandemonium that ensued on the expressway.
He questioned the opposition’s motivations for organizing protests that resulted in the devastation of public property.
“This insanity must cease at once. Is this a nonviolent demonstration or procession? Ichung’wah lamented that the media will accuse the police of dispersing “peaceful demonstrators.”
Additionally, political figures demanded the immediate intervention of police officers.
Nairobi Expressway Shuts Down Amidst Protestor Damage
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