NAIROBI, Kenya- The National Police Service (NPS) has arrested three suspects over Friday’s attack on an opposition political convoy in Keumbu, Kisii County, as investigators pursue more suspects linked to the violence.
In a statement issued on Saturday, police said investigations established that the incident occurred along the Kisii–Keroka road on July 3 and targeted a political group travelling through the area.
The convoy belonged to the Linda Mwananchi political movement, whose leaders were heading to political rallies in Keumbu and Keroka when armed youths reportedly blocked the road, hurled stones at vehicles and damaged several cars. Among those in the convoy was former Chief Justice and presidential aspirant David Maraga, whose vehicle was also attacked. Several supporters were reportedly injured in the chaos.
The NPS said officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kisii Central and Keumbu Police Station responded to the incident and arrested three suspects, who remain in custody.
Police added that forensic analysis of videos circulating on social and mainstream media is ongoing, alongside broader investigations aimed at identifying and arresting additional suspects.
“The National Police Service strongly condemns the events depicted. Political intolerance, in whatever form, is unacceptable and will be rigorously pursued through the criminal justice system,” the statement said.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has directed the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) to fast-track its review of the incident, including examining whether there were operational lapses by officers deployed to the area. IAU investigators have already been dispatched to Keumbu.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation after videos showed armed youths confronting the convoy while some police officers appeared to be at the scene. Opposition leaders have demanded the arrest of those responsible and investigations into the violence.
The National Police Service appealed to members of the public with information that could assist investigations to report to the nearest police station or through its toll-free reporting channels, including 999, 911, 0800 722 203 (FichuaKwaDCI) and WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.
Police said they remain committed to investigating the incident to its conclusion and ensuring those responsible are prosecuted.