NAIROBI, Kenya — The National Police Service (NPS) has intensified operations against criminal gangs following violence during the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay County, announcing the arrest of 37 suspected gang members and a continued manhunt for other people believed to have been involved in the unrest.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 17, the NPS said several criminal incidents were recorded during the rally held on Sunday, August 16, including an attack on journalists, damage to five police vehicles and destruction of several civilian vehicles.
One police vehicle also lost control during the incidents, resulting in the death of its driver and injuries to five other officers.
The NPS said three additional police officers had been injured on August 15 while arresting 15 suspected gang members along the Kisumu–Kericho Road. This brings the total number of injured officers linked to the Kisumu and Homa Bay incidents to eight, in addition to the officer who died in Homa Bay.
The Service conveyed its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased officer and wished the injured officers a quick recovery.
37 suspects arrested as police seize crude weapons
According to the NPS, the 37 suspects arrested in connection with the incidents were found in possession of various crude weapons.
The recovered items include machetes, ropes, metal rods, knives, rungus, batons and torches.
The suspects are being processed for prosecution, with police warning that those found culpable will face the law.
The NPS is also pursuing Oliver Jaoko, alias “Olivetti,” whom police identified as being at large.
The Service directed Jaoko to surrender to the nearest police station to assist with ongoing investigations, while operations to locate him and other suspects continue.
Police said they were also investigating other people who may have participated in the violence, including possible organisers, facilitators and sponsors of criminal activities.
Police warn political actors against sponsoring violence
The NPS issued a strong warning to criminal gangs, political goons and individuals who recruit, finance, mobilise, arm or otherwise facilitate criminal activity during political events.
The Service said no person, regardless of political position, influence or affiliation, should interpret the police commitment to facilitating peaceful assembly as an unwillingness to enforce the law.
It warned that individuals who use political activities to perpetrate violence, intimidate the public, attack police officers or destroy property would be pursued.
“The NPS will deploy all lawful means at its disposal to identify and apprehend those responsible and ensure that they face the full consequences of their actions,” the Service said.
The statement comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 General Election, with rival political groups increasingly holding public meetings and rallies across the country.
NPS reminds organisers of rally requirements
The police further reminded political actors organising public rallies that gatherings must be conducted within the prescribed hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Organisers are also required to notify police in advance to facilitate security planning and deployment.
The NPS urged political actors across the divide to conduct themselves with restraint, decorum and respect for the law.
The Service reaffirmed its constitutional mandate to maintain law and order, protect life and property and safeguard citizens’ right to peaceful assembly.
The latest crackdown follows growing concern over political violence and the use of organised groups to disrupt political activities, with authorities now signalling a broader effort to identify not only those who carry out violence but also individuals who may organise, finance or facilitate such criminal activity.
