Diners at a Kilimani restaurant were left traumatised on Saturday after a heated confrontation between Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino escalated into a frightening gun scare that nearly turned deadly.
The incident occurred at Cedars Lebanese Restaurant, where the two politicians arrived separately. According to eyewitnesses, Babu Owino was having lunch with another man when Alai entered the restaurant, spotted him, and walked directly to his table.
What initially appeared to be a verbal disagreement quickly spiralled out of control.
Allegations Over Online Attacks
Witnesses say Alai accused Owino of orchestrating a series of online attacks against his wife, allegedly carried out by controversial social media personality Maverick Aoko. The outspoken online commentator has recently shared several sharp and personal posts on X targeting Alai’s spouse.
Owino reportedly denied the accusations, insisting he had no personal relationship with Alai’s family and no motive to malign them.
“Alai accused Owino of employing Maverick Aoko to damage his wife’s reputation. Owino firmly denied the claims, saying he does not know Alai’s wife personally and has no reason to attack her,” said a witness who was seated at the bar.
Gun Pulled as Panic Erupts
Tensions escalated rapidly, drawing the attention of stunned diners. In a shocking twist, Alai allegedly pulled out a pistol, cocked it, and aimed it at Owino, attempting to fire several times.
The gun, however, failed to discharge, averting what could have been a fatal outcome.
The dramatic moment sent patrons scrambling for safety, with some ducking under tables as panic swept through the restaurant.
Senior DCI Officer Intervenes
A senior police officer who was dining at the establishment reacted swiftly. The officer, later identified as Mohamed Amin Shurie, a top official at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), immediately intervened and disarmed Alai, preventing further escalation.
Following the intervention, a visibly shaken Alai left the restaurant abruptly, while Owino remained briefly before also departing. Restaurant staff and patrons were left stunned as calm slowly returned to the scene.
Public Shock and Political Fallout
The incident has sparked widespread shock, given the high-profile nature of the individuals involved and the apparent ease with which a firearm was produced in a public space. Questions are now being raised over security, firearm possession, and accountability involving public officials.
As of publication, no official police statement had been issued regarding possible arrests or investigations, but the incident is expected to draw significant scrutiny from both law enforcement and the public.
