Co-operative Bank has confirmed that two of its branches, in Githurai and Dagoretti Market, were affected during Wednesday’s anti-Finance Bill protests that swept across parts of Nairobi and other major towns.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the bank reported that one ATM machine at the Githurai branch was forcefully tampered with during the unrest.
Preliminary reports indicated that cash, allegedly amounting to over Sh1 million, may have been looted in the incident.
However, the bank clarified that the actual cash loss was minimal, and no injuries were reported among staff or customers at either location.
“Repairs have commenced immediately, and both branches will be fully operational in the coming days,” the bank assured.
Customers from the affected branches have been advised to access services at the nearest Co-op Bank outlets or through mobile and online platforms.
The incident occurred on a day marked by widespread demonstrations organized largely by Kenya’s youth, popularly referred to as Gen Z.
Gen Z protesters took to the streets on June 25 to commemorate those who were killed during last year’s anti-Finance Bill 2024 demonstrations.
The day marked exactly one year since the tragic deaths of young Kenyans who were demanding economic justice.
Protesters held vigils, carried placards with victims’ names, and called for accountability.
Thousands of protesters took to the streets in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, and other towns, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the bill.
The protests were largely peaceful in most areas but were marred by incidents of looting, vandalism, and clashes with police in parts of Nairobi, including Githurai.
Security agencies have since launched investigations into the disturbances, including the tampering of the Co-op Bank ATM.
Cooperative Bank has assured its customers that safety remains a top priority and that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure continued service.
