Nairobi, Kenya – August 25, 2025
The National Police Service (NPS) has addressed growing concerns over insecurity in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) following a media report that linked an attack at Nanak House to a broader trend of rising crime in the city centre.
In a detailed statement released on Monday, August 25, the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja assured the public that the incident in question was “specific and targeted” rather than indicative of widespread insecurity.
The Incident at Nanak House
The controversy stems from an attack that occurred on Friday, August 22, at Nanak House, a prominent commercial building along Kimathi Street. Initial reports suggested that armed individuals vandalized multiple shops, causing alarm among business owners and traders operating in the area.
Media coverage over the weekend portrayed the attack as part of a worrying security lapse in the CBD, triggering public debate and concerns from investors about the safety of Nairobi’s commercial hub.
However, according to the NPS statement, detectives have established that the attack was not random but rather a targeted move linked to an internal civil dispute.
“Following a careful analysis of the incident that took place on Friday, 22nd August 2025, at Nanak House, detectives have ascertained certain facts. These point to a deliberate attack on four businesses within the said building, which appears to be linked to an internal dispute of a civil nature, a matter that is already before the court,” the police statement read.
Police Action and Arrests
The NPS confirmed that one suspect has already been arrested, and further investigations are ongoing. Additional arrests are expected as detectives pursue leads provided by both security footage and witness accounts.
“An arrest has already been made, and further arrests and progress are expected. These facts were detailed by the Regional Police Commander responsible for Nairobi this afternoon,” the statement added.
The arrest, according to security sources, was made within hours of the incident after investigators traced the suspect through CCTV footage and phone records.
Nairobi CBD Declared Safe
The police used the statement to reassure the public and the business community that the CBD remains one of the most secure areas in the country.
“The National Police Service wishes to assure the public that Nairobi Central Business District remains one of the most secure areas in which to conduct business. Its status as a symbol of the capital city cannot be overemphasised,” the NPS stated.
The service further pointed out that Kenya’s overall security situation is stable, attributing this to consistent policing efforts and community cooperation.
“Furthermore, the general state of security across the country remains commendably good, a result of the efforts executed on a daily basis alongside the invaluable support of the public,” the statement concluded.
Past Incidents and Public Perception
This latest clarification comes barely two months after NPS had to respond to another viral incident involving alleged police misconduct during protests in Nairobi.
On June 17, 2025, social media erupted after a video circulated showing a uniformed police officer carrying laptops from a looted electronics shop. Many Kenyans interpreted the footage as evidence of police involvement in theft during demonstrations against the Finance Bill.
The following day, NPS issued a statement explaining that the officer was not stealing but rather recovering stolen property after several shops had been broken into during the protests.
“NPS wishes to clarify that following recent protests in Nairobi, several shops were broken into and various items were stolen. Police officers arrested one suspect and recovered four laptops, which are now in safe custody as exhibits at the Central Police Station, Nairobi,” the June 18 statement read.
Affected business owners were urged to visit the station and help identify their property. The NPS also promised to bring all individuals involved in criminal acts during the protests to justice.
Business Community Reaction
Despite NPS assurances, some members of the Nairobi business community remain cautious. Traders have repeatedly complained about the slow police response to incidents of burglary and vandalism, particularly during protests or political unrest.
A representative of the Nairobi Central Business Association, speaking on condition of anonymity, said:
“While we appreciate the arrest made, the fact that such incidents keep happening raises concerns. The government needs to strengthen surveillance and ensure quick deployment of officers whenever such threats arise.”
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