More than 150 suspects have been arraigned in courts across Kenya in connection with the violent unrest that erupted during the nationwide protests on June 25, 2025. Authorities have intensified operations targeting individuals believed to have exploited the demonstrations to commit crimes, including looting, arson, and attacks on police infrastructure.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed that suspects have been presented in various courts as part of an ongoing probe into the chaos that gripped several towns. The protests, which initially began as peaceful expressions of discontent against government policies, were reportedly infiltrated by criminal elements, prompting a sweeping crackdown.
In Kiambu County, the Thika Law Courts alone received 85 suspects 56 from Juja Police Station and 29 from Thika Police Station. One additional suspect was arraigned virtually before the Ruiru Law Courts. Elsewhere, authorities reported that 32 suspects were charged in Murang’a, 15 in Ol Kalou, 10 in Kisii, and 9 in Bungoma.
Investigations have revealed disturbing levels of organized criminal activity during the protests. In Nairobi’s Kikuyu and Dagoretti areas, detectives intercepted a matatu allegedly used to ferry rioters. Four individuals found inside the vehicle are accused of participating in the destruction of property and the theft of police equipment. One suspect was reportedly caught on CCTV carrying a stolen firearm, while others were found with looted goods.
In another operation in Naivasha’s Maai Mahiu area, seven suspects were arrested in connection with the looting of the Transit Hotel. Recovered items included curtains, pillows, a curtain rod, and large cooking pots. These arrests highlight the opportunistic nature of the crimes, with suspects targeting both commercial and public property.
In Embu County, two women were detained after police recovered a stolen white water tank from Kiritiri Market. The tank had been encased in metal, presumably to avoid detection.
Authorities are now pursuing additional suspects and have urged the public to assist in identifying individuals involved in the violence. Those arrested face a range of charges, including theft, malicious damage to property, arson, possession of stolen firearms, and assault on law enforcement officers.
The security operation is part of a broader government effort to restore order and uphold the rule of law. Investigators stress that the crackdown will continue until all those responsible are held accountable. The public is being called upon to remain vigilant and share any relevant information to support the investigations.
