The incident occurred on Monday as demonstrations linked to the high cost of fuel continued to spread to different parts of the country, with residents taking to the streets to express anger over increased transport costs and the rising cost of living.
Witnesses said the situation escalated after groups of youths gathered in the Makongeni area, where they blocked roads and chanted slogans demanding immediate government action to address the fuel price crisis.
Police officers were deployed to disperse the crowd and restore order. However, tensions quickly rose, leading to confrontations between the officers and the protesters.
It was during the confrontation at the BAT Makongeni area that police reportedly opened fire, injuring two youths who were later rushed to hospital for emergency treatment. Their condition was reported to be serious.
The incident sparked panic among residents, with many retreating from the area as security officers moved in to contain the situation and prevent further escalation.
Movement in parts of Makongeni was temporarily disrupted as the confrontation unfolded, with businesses closing early amid fears of further violence.
Residents said the protests were driven by frustration over the continued increase in fuel prices, which has led to higher transport fares and increased costs of basic goods and services.
Some locals expressed concern over the use of force by police, calling for restraint and urging authorities to engage protesters through dialogue rather than confrontation.
Security reinforcements were later deployed to the area, and efforts were made to restore calm and normal movement. By evening, the situation had begun to stabilize, although a heavy police presence remained in place.
The protests in Thika form part of wider demonstrations across the country over fuel prices, which have become a major source of public concern in recent weeks.
The government has maintained that the rise in fuel prices is largely driven by global market conditions and supply disruptions, and has indicated that it is considering possible interventions to cushion citizens from the impact.
Transport operators have also warned that continued increases in fuel prices could further strain public transport services and lead to higher fares for commuters.