Broad Daylight Drama as Prominent Figure Is Bundled Into a Car While Bystanders Watch Helplessly

Dramatic scenes unfolded along Kimathi Street in Nairobi on Tuesday, October 20, after Citizen TV journalist Odee Francis was bundled into a waiting police vehicle while covering demonstrations against rising fuel prices.

The journalist was caught up in the operation alongside activists who had taken to the streets to express their concerns over the rising cost of living.

Videos circulating online showed plainclothes officers dragging Odee along Kimathi Street before forcing him into a police vehicle. The incident attracted the attention of members of the public and fellow journalists who tried to intervene.

According to reports, Odee identified himself as a journalist who was carrying out his professional duties. However, officers proceeded with the arrest despite pleas from those at the scene.

The journalist was later taken to Central Police Station, where he was briefly detained alongside other individuals arrested during the demonstrations.

His arrest came as Kenyans continued to raise concerns over the latest fuel price increases announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) on October 14.

Under the latest review, super petrol in Nairobi increased by KSh12.93 per litre to KSh226.96, while diesel rose by KSh9.90 to KSh227.76. Kerosene recorded the biggest increase, going up by KSh28.49 to KSh219.87 per litre.

The new prices took effect on October 15, putting additional pressure on motorists, public transport operators and households already struggling with the high cost of basic needs.

The demonstrations brought the fuel crisis back into the national conversation, with protesters calling for measures to ease the burden on ordinary citizens.

Odee’s arrest also raised questions about the safety of journalists covering public protests. The Crime Journalists Association of Kenya called for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his arrest.

The journalist was later released from police custody.

As the country marks Mashujaa Day, attention remains on the rising cost of living and the right of journalists to report events safely.

What do you think should happen following Odee Francis’s arrest?

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