General Service Unit (GSU) officers have been deployed to quell protests in Mlolongo, Machakos County.

The GSU joined other police formations to manage operations in the town after hundreds of youths took to the streets in anti-government protests on Tuesday.

The protesters initially stormed the usually busy Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, barricading it and lighting fires.

They engaged the officers in running battles until the GSU intervened.

All vehicles traveling the route from Mombasa to Nairobi were temporarily diverted to the Expressway until officers managed to disperse the protesters.

A large contingent of police officers has been deployed in Mlolongo town and its surroundings.

Motorists have avoided the highway, and all traders have closed their shops.

Despite the heavy police presence, youths remain in the town, playing hide-and-seek with the officers who are maintaining a vigilant watch.

The air has been thick with teargas since the demonstrations began in Mlolongo town.

Neighboring towns such as Athi River and Kitengela have also seen businesses shut down.