Balaclava-Clad Suspects Spark Security Concerns After Tourists Targeted in Nairobi CBD

Video circulating online captures suspected robbers trailing foreign tourists amid demonstrations by traders protesting new KRA customs valuation rules

Fresh concerns over security in Nairobi's Central Business District have emerged after a video circulating on social media appeared to show a group of suspected robbers, wearing balaclavas, following a group of foreign tourists.

The footage captures the tense moment as the hooded men allegedly closed in on the visitors, prompting journalists accompanying the tourists to intervene and guide them away from the area.

One of the reporters can be heard warning the visitors to remain together and avoid allowing anyone to get behind them.

“Waambie wote wakae mbele yako. Kaa rada, mtu asikuwe nyuma yako. Kuna hawa vijana nimeona wamevaa balaclava ndio walikuwa wanataka kuibia hawa wazungu,” the reporter is heard saying.

The authenticity and precise circumstances surrounding the footage could not immediately be independently established. However, the video has generated renewed debate online over the safety of visitors and members of the public in the CBD, particularly during periods of heightened activity.

Traders' protests disrupt CBD

The reported incident occurred against the backdrop of Friday's demonstrations by hundreds of small-scale traders protesting changes to customs valuation rules introduced by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

Traders from Kamukunji, Gikomba and Nyamakima gathered outside the Kenya National Archives along Tom Mboya Street before marching towards Times Tower, where KRA is headquartered.

The protesters carried banners, blew vuvuzelas and waved Kenyan flags as they called for the government to reconsider the revised valuation benchmark on consolidated cargo.

The demonstrations disrupted activity along several major commercial routes in the capital, with some businesses temporarily closing their premises amid security concerns.

Dispute over KRA valuation benchmark

At the centre of the dispute is a new minimum valuation benchmark for a 40-foot container of consolidated general cargo, which traders say has increased from KSh2.5 million to KSh3.2 million.

The change represents an increase of KSh700,000, or approximately 28 per cent.

Small-scale importers who share container space to bring in clothing, electronics, household goods and other merchandise, particularly from China, say the higher valuation could significantly affect their operating costs.

Traders argue that the additional cost could reduce already narrow profit margins, force some small businesses out of the market and eventually result in higher prices for consumers.

“If they add the Ksh.700,000, there is no profit we will make,” a Kamukunji trader said during mobilisation for the demonstrations.

The traders have called for discussions with government agencies to address their concerns.

KRA explains new valuation system

KRA has defended the new benchmark, explaining that the KSh3.2 million figure is a minimum reference point used for simplified customs clearance and risk management rather than a flat tax imposed on every shipment.

The authority has also stated that traders can de-consolidate their cargo and have duties assessed based on actual itemised declarations.

However, traders maintain that itemised declarations can be difficult for micro-importers operating with limited capital and sharing container space.

The disagreement has prompted calls from business leaders and trade associations for urgent consultations between government officials and representatives of small-scale traders.

Security concerns emerge

The video involving the tourists has added another dimension to concerns surrounding the protests, as businesses and members of the public navigate a busy CBD amid demonstrations and disruptions.

While the circumstances surrounding the alleged attempted robbery remain unclear, the footage has prompted calls for heightened vigilance and stronger security measures in areas frequented by tourists and shoppers.

Authorities have not, based on the information available, announced arrests in connection with the incident.

The developments come as Nairobi continues to balance increased commercial activity with heightened security concerns during public demonstrations, with traders meanwhile pushing for dialogue over the new customs valuation rules.