Quickmart refutes claims of bodies found at OTC branch

Quickmart Supermarket

Quickmart Supermarket has dismissed as false and misleading online reports claiming that several bodies were discovered inside its OTC branch in Nairobi following Wednesday’s deadly protests.

In a statement released on Thursday, the retail chain strongly denied the viral rumours, assuring the public that no deaths or injuries occurred at its OTC or Ruiru outlets, both of which were affected during the unrest.

“Contrary to misleading information circulating on digital platforms, we wish to assure the public that no staff, customers, or any other individuals were injured or deceased at the two outlets,” the statement read.

Quickmart emphasised that the safety and security of its employees, customers and the wider community remain its top priorities and that it is taking necessary steps to ensure business continuity and public confidence. 

“While we recognise that the recent events have posed a significant challenge for these outlets, we want to emphasise that Quickmart is deeply committed to restoring normalcy as swiftly as possible,” the company said. 

The supermarket chain added that it is working diligently to stabilise operations and support both shoppers and staff, while continuing to engage with authorities and stakeholders.

“Quickmart remains dedicated to caring for our community and will continue to keep the public informed as we work towards stability and recovery.”

In the meantime, Quickmart advised customers who use the affected OTC and Ruiru branches to visit the nearest operational outlets for uninterrupted services.

The clarification comes in the wake of widespread unrest that swept through multiple counties on Wednesday, as thousands took to the streets to mark the first anniversary of the Gen Z-led protests.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed in a press briefing that at least 10 people were killed, though he noted investigations into the circumstances and exact number are ongoing.

Human rights groups including Amnety International placed the death toll at 16.

Murkomen also reported that the protests led to extensive destruction of government and public property, including attacks on police stations and critical infrastructure.

Infrastructure such as roads, railways, electricity lines, and water facilities were also vandalized in what Murkomen described as a “coordinated and politically instigated assault on national stability.”