Kikuyu, Kiambu County – At least 25 protesters have been arrested in connection with the violent chaos that erupted in Kikuyu during the June 26 anniversary demonstrations, which quickly spiraled into destruction, looting, and a major breach of public security.
According to a police report what began as a peaceful procession turned chaotic after a group of hired goons blocked the Southern Bypass and Old Kikuyu Road using stones and lit bonfires made from old vehicle tires.
The report indicates that the rioters were allegedly mobilized from Limuru and other parts of Kiambu County, and ferried to Kikuyu aboard three lorries. Authorities claim the group swelled to nearly 10,000 individuals, quickly overwhelming the local police response.
“Consequently, KPS, APS, and DCI jointly engaged the rioters… Police officers were overpowered, forcing the SCPC to seek reinforcement from the Kiambu County Headquarters,” the report stated.
A reinforcement team, led by APS County Commander Ismael Ahmed, was dispatched, comprising officers from NPS, DCI, and Kenya Prisons Service, drawn from various stations in Kiambu and Murang’a Counties.
In the ensuing 30-minute running battles, several government institutions were torched, including:Kikuyu Law Courts,Dagoretti Police Post ,DCC’s Office and County Government offices
Of particular concern was the situation at the Dagoretti Police Post, where the rioters managed to steal five firearms, including:Two AK-47 rifles, one G3 rifle ,one Jericho pistol and one anti-riot gun
Police also reported a failed attempt to raid the Sub-County APS armoury, which could have led to even greater escalation.
As a result of the violent confrontation:
- One person was killed
- Five police officers sustained injuries
Investigations into the hiring, mobilization, and funding of the alleged goons are currently ongoing. Security agencies have vowed to recover the stolen weapons and bring those responsible to justice.
