The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested 485 individuals linked to the violent unrest that erupted during the nationwide protests on June 25. DCI Director Mohamed Amin, speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi, confirmed that 448 suspects have already been arraigned in court, while 37 others remain under investigation.
According to Amin, the suspects face a wide range of serious charges, including murder, terrorism, rape, gang rape, arson, robbery with violence, incitement to violence, and possession of illegal firearms. He disclosed that investigations suggest the violence was not spontaneous but the result of a calculated and well-funded operation aimed at destabilising the country.
“Individuals were strategically mobilised and transported, particularly into Nairobi, from different parts of the country not to express legitimate grievances, but to execute a coordinated agenda of disruption,” said Amin.
What began as youth-led protests calling for government accountability quickly devolved into chaos. Violent incidents were reported in Nairobi, Kitengela, Dagoreti, Naivasha, Kikuyu, and Nyeri, among other towns.
Businesses suffered significant losses as retail shops, wholesale outlets, and banks were looted and vandalised. ATMs were also targeted, with millions of shillings reported stolen during the mayhem.
Amin revealed that the DCI has received credible reports of sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, committed by criminals who infiltrated the protests. “These incidents add a horrifying dimension to an already grave situation,” he said, expressing concern for the victims and their families.
The DCI further reported that firearms and police equipment were stolen during attacks on law enforcement officers. Some of these weapons have already been used in violent robberies, particularly in Naivasha.
While acknowledging that some demonstrators acted peacefully, Amin warned against allowing criminal elements to hijack public protests. “We must not allow criminals to hijack public expression and plunge the country into chaos,” he said.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to uphold law and order, as investigations into the orchestrators of the violence continue.
