GSU takes over in Mlolongo as demos begin on Mombasa Road

General Service Unit officers have moved in to quell protests in Mlolongo, Machakos County.

The unit joined other police formations in operations within the town after hundreds of youths poured onto the streets in anti-government protests on Tuesday.

The youths earlier stormed the usually busy Nairobi - Mombasa Highway and barricaded it before lighting live fires.

They then engaged the officers in running battles before the GSU moved in.

All vehicles plying the route from Mombasa to Nairobi were diverted to the Expressway for a while before the officers repulsed the surging youths.

A contingent of police officers have been deployed in Mlolongo town and its environs.

Motorists have kept off the highway with all traders closing shops.

Youths are, however, all over the town with some playing hide-and-seek games with the officers who have kept vigil.

Teargas renting the air has been the trend since the demonstrations broke in Mlolongo town.

Neighboring towns like Athi River and Kitengela have also had businesses closed down.