Detectives have intensified investigations into the violence that disrupted the Linda Mwananchi political rally in Homa Bay on August 16, with police pursuing 25 suspects believed to have been involved in organising and executing the chaos.
The National Police Service (NPS) said preliminary investigations had identified several individuals suspected of playing key roles in the disruptions, with detectives following leads aimed at establishing the full extent of the alleged mobilisation and coordination.
“So far, 22 suspects have been presented before Court, where detectives were granted custodial orders,” the NPS said in a statement.
The suspects are being investigated over their alleged involvement in the violent incidents that marred the rally, with detectives seeking to identify and apprehend other individuals linked to the disturbances.
According to police, the investigation has uncovered what they described as a broader network of suspected hired youths and repeat offenders who were allegedly mobilised to instigate violence, intimidate members of the public and disrupt peaceful political activities.
Detectives said they were pursuing all available leads to establish the identities and roles of those suspected of organising, financing or participating in the violence.
The investigation comes amid heightened scrutiny of political gatherings and the conduct of participants following the Homa Bay incidents. Police said political differences should not be used to justify violence, destruction or intimidation.
The NPS cautioned members of the public against allowing themselves to be recruited or manipulated into acts of violence, warning that individuals involved in such activities would face legal action.
“Political differences must never become a licence for chaos, destruction or the intimidation of fellow citizens,” the police service said.
It added: “Those who mobilise, finance or participate in violence will be dealt with in accordance with the law.”
The NPS said the ongoing operation was intended to ensure that all individuals suspected of orchestrating violence and threatening public order are identified, arrested and brought before the courts.
Police have also appealed to members of the public with information relevant to the investigations to assist detectives by reporting anonymously.
The NPS urged members of the public to use the #FichuaKwaDCI reporting platform to provide information that could help investigators identify additional suspects or establish the circumstances surrounding the violence.
Information can also be submitted through the Directorate of Criminal Investigations' toll-free number, 0800 722 203, or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
The police service maintained that the investigation would continue as detectives pursue remaining suspects and gather evidence concerning the events surrounding the August 16 rally.
Authorities reiterated that individuals found culpable of acts of violence would be subjected to due process and prosecuted in accordance with Kenyan law.