By Andrew Kariuki
Central Police Station OCS Dishen Angoya was rushed to hospital after reportedly falling ill just hours after his arrest over allegations that he unlawfully released dozens of suspects detained during Monday’s anti-fuel protests in Nairobi.
Angoya was arrested on Tuesday and placed in custody following claims that 64 suspects arrested during the chaotic demonstrations were released from detention without lawful authority.
According to police reports, the officer was arrested by the Deputy Regional Police Commander and was awaiting arraignment over allegations of abuse of office.
“Chief Inspector Dishen Angoya, the OCS Central Police Station, Nairobi Region, was arrested by the Deputy Regional Police Commander for the offence of abuse of office after allegedly releasing 64 prisoners arrested for offences relating to public order without lawful authority,” part of the police statement read.
Authorities further revealed that the officer complained of high blood pressure while in custody before he was later rushed to hospital for medical attention.
The arrest comes amid intensified investigations into Monday’s nationwide protests that paralysed transport services and triggered violent scenes across several parts of the country following sharp fuel price increases.
The suspects allegedly released by the officer were among hundreds arrested during demonstrations linked to the rising cost of living and soaring fuel prices.
The incident has now sparked fresh scrutiny within security agencies as investigations continue into how the detainees were allegedly freed from police custody.
Meanwhile, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is also pursuing separate investigations into criminal incidents linked to the protests, including the torching of a Mazda CX-5 along Thika Road during the unrest.
Monday’s protests also led to major transport disruptions after matatu operators, boda boda riders and other transport players grounded services in protest over high fuel prices.
The nationwide demonstrations piled pressure on the government, forcing the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) to revise diesel prices following consultations with transport sector stakeholders.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has since confirmed that at least four people died and more than 30 others were injured during the protests witnessed in Nairobi, Nakuru, Kajiado and Kakamega counties.
The government has also warned that individuals involved in violent acts, destruction of property or organized criminal activity during demonstrations will face legal action.
