Hundreds of passengers were left stranded at Kenya’s main airport as workers protested against a proposed takeover by an Indian company. Long queues formed outside Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Wednesday morning as flights faced delays and cancellations.

The workers initiated a “go-slow,” intentionally slowing their work to cause disruption, in opposition to plans to lease JKIA to the Adani Group for 30 years. The aviation workers’ union claims the deal is “opaque” and could result in job losses. However, the government defended the proposal, stating that the airport is operating beyond its capacity and requires private investment for upgrades.

On Wednesday morning, dozens of airport workers were seen blowing plastic trumpets and chanting “Adani must go,” as shown on footage aired by local broadcaster Citizen TV. The video also appeared to capture a police officer striking a protester with a baton.

“By 7:00 am, minimal operations had resumed,” the Kenya Airports Authority said in a statement. “We are currently engaging with relevant parties to normalize operations. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.”

The Kenya Aviation Workers’ Union had previously threatened an indefinite strike after the government failed to disclose details of the deal with the Adani Group. The Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission also criticized the plans, arguing that leasing such a strategic national asset to a private company is unreasonable.

Both organizations filed a challenge with the High Court, which subsequently halted the deal to allow time for a judicial review. A date for the final court decision has yet to be set.