Three additional individuals have been arrested in connection with the violent demonstrations that took place in Ol Kalou town, Nyandarua County, on June 25, 2025. The protests, which were part of a larger wave of national unrest, saw chaotic scenes including looting, arson, and widespread property destruction.
Authorities confirmed that the latest arrests were made through an intelligence-led operation targeting key suspects believed to have played a role in the violence. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) noted that the individuals are currently being processed and will soon be arraigned in court.
The demonstrations in Ol Kalou mirrored similar protests across the country, largely driven by young people expressing deep frustration over government policies, economic hardships, and limited job opportunities. The unrest quickly escalated, leaving several people injured and businesses damaged in its wake.
The arrests follow the release of 19 individuals who were earlier detained over the same protests. On Monday, the Ol Kalou court freed them on personal bonds of Ksh100,000 each, with two sureties of the same amount. A minor who had been arrested alongside the others was also released, with their parent standing in as a guarantor.
Principal Magistrate Judicaster Nthuku made the ruling after rejecting an application by the prosecution to detain the suspects for an additional 21 days. The lead investigator, Corporal Richard Limo, had submitted a sworn statement requesting extended detention. He argued that more time was needed to gather evidence, record statements from witnesses, and ensure that the suspects did not interfere with the ongoing investigation.
However, the court found the prosecution’s arguments insufficient. The magistrate stated that holding the suspects any longer was not justified, especially since there was no compelling evidence showing they would interfere with witnesses or tamper with evidence.
The court’s decision to release the 19 has not deterred authorities from continuing investigations. The arrest of the three additional suspects underscores the government’s resolve to identify and prosecute those involved in orchestrating or participating in the violent acts.
The case is scheduled to return to court on July 21, 2025, for mention and to review the progress of the investigations. As the situation continues to unfold, both local and national authorities are urging for calm and encouraging peaceful engagement, even as frustrations over socio-economic issues remain high.
