Kenyan police savagely beat peaceful student protesters

Kenyan police have been recorded savagely beating a group of peaceful protesters during a sit in protest at the University of Nairobi.

Published on April 4, footage shows a large group of protesters lying on the ground outside the University of Nairobi surrounded by Kenyan police.

Armed with bats, the officers walk up the line of frightened students, beating them as they go. Nairobi police commander Japheth Koome told The Star, Kenya the video was uploaded to social media in an attempt to discredit his officers.

"We want to know… how this happened," he said.

Local media reports the demonstrations were against the Students Organization of Nairobi University chairman Babu Owino who won his seat despite his rival, Mike Jacobs having a clear lead.

Police claim students burnt Owino's office following the election.