Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has issued a stern warning to individuals planning to cause violence during the upcoming Gen Z anniversary protests, saying security agencies are on high alert to ensure peace and order across the country.

Lagat said a multi-agency security team has put in place measures to prevent any disruptions during the planned demonstrations, while affirming that Kenyans have a constitutional right to protest peacefully.

The police boss condemned any attempts to infiltrate demonstrations with the aim of causing chaos, urging protesters to remain unarmed and exercise their freedoms responsibly.

“Kenyans are free to continue with their daily activities. Peace will prevail because we have put in place measures to ensure there is peace in the country. Any person who attempts to cause violence will be arrested,” said Lagat.

He reiterated that law enforcement agencies would not tolerate acts of violence, vandalism or intimidation during the commemorative protests.

At the same time, the Deputy Inspector General called for a renewed crackdown on politically sponsored gangs and criminal groups operating in the Coast region.

Lagat specifically cited goons and panga-wielding gangs as a persistent security threat and directed security officers to intensify operations against such groups.

“We have ordered Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno to crack down on all goons and panga gangs. The government will not tolerate criminal gangs, and we have stepped up efforts to ensure that those arrested face the full force of the law,” he said.

The remarks were made in Mombasa during the flagging off of 25 tuk-tuks donated to youth groups by a well-wisher as part of efforts to promote employment opportunities and reduce crime among young people in the city.

Lagat praised initiatives aimed at empowering the youth economically, noting that job creation remains a key strategy in addressing crime and social challenges affecting many communities.

The planned Gen Z anniversary demonstrations are expected to take place in several parts of the country, with security agencies urging participants to remain peaceful and lawful throughout the events.