“No Entry to Nakuru” as Fuel Protest Chaos Escalates, Roads Blocked Amid Teargas Battles

Tension gripped Nakuru on Monday after major roads leading into and out of the town were reportedly blocked during the ongoing nationwide fuel protests and matatu strike.

Thick clouds of teargas filled parts of the town as police engaged protesters in running battles while demonstrators barricaded roads using burning tires, stones, and tree branches. Transport in and around Nakuru was brought to a near standstill, with many motorists forced to turn back or seek alternative routes.

Reports from local media and eyewitnesses indicated that sections of the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway were heavily disrupted, especially routes connecting Nakuru town to Nairobi, Naivasha, and Mau Summit. Protesters were also said to be monitoring private vehicles entering town, forcing some drivers to abandon travel plans. 

Among the roads likely to experience major blockages and disruptions are:

• Nairobi–Nakuru Highway

• Nakuru–Nairobi Highway

• Nakuru–Mau Summit Road

• Nakuru–Naivasha route

• Sections around the Nakuru matatu terminus

• Main entry roads into Nakuru CBD

Residents described the situation as tense, with smoke visible from several areas as anti-riot police attempted to disperse crowds using teargas. Public transport remained largely paralyzed after matatu operators joined the nationwide strike over soaring fuel prices. 

Social media users warned travelers to avoid unnecessary movement into Nakuru as the unrest intensified.

“No entry to Nakuru. Road closed. Teargas in the air. Kaa penye uko,” messages circulating online read as fear spread among motorists and commuters.

Authorities have continued deploying security officers in affected areas as efforts to restore calm and reopen blocked roads continue.