35 Youths Arrested in Foiled Looting Attempt During Saba Saba Day in Eldoret

 

More than 35 youths aged between 17 and 30 were arrested on Sunday at Huruma Trading Centre along the Eldoret-Webuye Highway as they attempted to carry out criminal activities under the guise of Saba Saba Day protests.

The group was intercepted by riot police officers deployed in six land cruiser vehicles, who responded swiftly to distress calls from local business owners and members of the public. The suspects were taken to Eldoret Central Police Station, where they remain in custody pending arraignment in court on Tuesday.

Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects were not genuine protesters but criminals masquerading as demonstrators with the intent to loot and vandalize business premises.

“Our officers arrested about 35 youths who were attempting to execute a looting spree at Huruma. Thanks to swift police action, we were able to stop them before any serious damage occurred,” Mwanthi told the media.

Tight Security Averts Further Chaos

Mwanthi said the county security team had enhanced patrols and deployed sufficient personnel to secure Eldoret’s Central Business District (CBD) and surrounding areas. This follows violent protests held on June 25 during the anti-Finance Bill 2024 demonstrations, in which property worth millions was destroyed.

“We took proactive measures today by sealing off all entry and exit points to the town for suspected protesters. That’s why there were no major demonstrations in the CBD,” Mwanthi explained.

He urged business owners in Eldoret, many of whom kept their shops closed in fear, to resume operations, assuring them that security had been fully restored.

“We are committed to ensuring that no criminal gangs take advantage of public demonstrations to wreak havoc in our town. Patrols will remain active,” he added.

Popular Nightclub Under Tight Guard

Among the premises under heavy police guard is the popular Baniyas Square Nightclub, located on the outskirts of Eldoret. The club, a known target during past demonstrations, was heavily damaged during the June 25 protests, where property and goods worth over Ksh 40 million were reportedly stolen.

In anticipation of further unrest, the club’s management closed operations and sent staff home, while a contingent of more than 30 armed officers was deployed to protect the premises.

“We had intelligence indicating that the same group planned to storm the nightclub again. We acted in time to prevent a repeat of last month’s destruction,” Mwanthi revealed.

Community Urged to Stay Vigilant

The County Police Commander called on residents to report suspicious activities and discourage youths from engaging in criminal conduct disguised as political expression.

“We respect the right to peaceful protest, but we will not tolerate lawlessness. Anyone caught engaging in criminal activity will face the full force of the law,” he warned.