Citizen TV journalist Immanuel Ndung’u was left visibly shaken after encountering a new crowd-control method during live coverage of the Gen Z protest commemoration in Nairobi. The incident unfolded in the central business district where tensions were rising and security forces had intensified their presence. He was reporting on the demonstrations when police reportedly used a sound cannon to disperse crowds. The sudden escalation forced him to stop his live broadcast and seek immediate safety. The experience highlighted the unpredictable and fast-changing nature of protest coverage in the city.
According to his account shared in a video, the sound cannon created an overwhelming noise that disrupted movement across the area. Protesters and bystanders scattered quickly as the loud sound spread through the streets. The device, unfamiliar to many residents, caused confusion and panic among those present. Unlike the more commonly known water cannons used in past crowd-control operations, this method relied on intense sound waves to push people back. The noise was strong enough to affect not only protesters but also journalists and security personnel in the vicinity.
The journalist described the moment as disorienting and physically uncomfortable. He noted that the sound was so intense that it felt like it was ringing in his ears long after the immediate exposure. He was forced to pause his coverage and move to a safer location until the situation stabilized. His live transmission ended abruptly as conditions on the ground became too dangerous to continue reporting. The experience underscored the risks faced by media professionals during high-tension public events.
The incident occurred during demonstrations linked to the commemoration of the June 25 protests, a date that has become symbolic following previous unrest and reported casualties. Security agencies had increased patrols and monitoring across Nairobi and other urban centers ahead of the event. Authorities aimed to prevent large-scale disruptions, which led to a heavy police presence in key areas. The deployment of new crowd-control tools reflected an evolving approach to managing public demonstrations.
Public reaction to the footage shared by Immanuel Ndung’u included concern over the intensity of the device and its impact on civilians. Many viewers expressed shock at the use of sound-based dispersal methods in a busy urban environment. The incident also reignited discussions about protest management strategies and the safety of journalists working in volatile situations. It served as a reminder of how quickly peaceful coverage can turn into a hazardous situation.
