A total of 45 individuals have been apprehended in connection with the violent demonstrations and looting that rocked Kikuyu, Kiambu County, and Nyeri Town on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.
The protests, which were initially intended to commemorate the first anniversary of the June 25, 2024, anti-finance bill demonstrations that left 60 people dead and many others injured across the country, quickly descended into disorder.
In Kikuyu, rioters set ablaze several government installations, including the Kikuyu Law Courts, Kikuyu Sub-County offices, and other public facilities such as vehicles, tractors, and tuk-tuks.
Following the unrest, detectives launched investigations to track down those involved in the destruction. As a result, 24 suspects were arrested and arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court at the Ruiru Law Courts, where officers secured a 14-day custodial order to allow for further investigations.
Authorities also recovered stolen property, including two steel windows, a steel door, and a water tank, which were found abandoned in a bush in the Mai-ii-hii and Kabete areas.
Meanwhile, in Nyeri, 21 suspects were taken into custody on charges related to shop breaking, theft, and handling stolen goods. Of those arrested, 10 pleaded guilty, with their case scheduled for mention on Wednesday, July 2, for the reading of facts.
The remaining 11 suspects, who denied the charges, were released on a KSh 100,000 bond each. Their case is set to be mentioned on Thursday, July 10, 2025.
The June 25 protests erupted across at least 23 counties, with widespread reports of looting and destruction of property.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has confirmed that investigations are ongoing and assured the public that all those found responsible will face justice.
“We are still gathering details surrounding these unfortunate events. Rest assured, there will be accountability,” Murkomen stated.
The National Police Service has also appealed for calm, urging citizens to refrain from engaging in criminal activities during protests.
“We urge the public to exercise restraint and avoid destruction of property during demonstrations. Such conduct will be met with the full force of the law,” read a statement from the police.
By Were Kelly
