One Dead, 14 Arrested as Police Crack Down on Political Violence in Kisumu and Nyahururu

 The National Police Service (NPS) has confirmed that one person was killed, several others injured, and 14 suspects arrested following separate incidents of political violence in Kisumu City and Nyahururu Town on Sunday.

In a press statement released by the Office of the Inspector General, the police strongly condemned what it described as acts of political intolerance, violence and goonism, warning that those behind the unrest will face the full force of the law.

According to the statement, preliminary investigations indicate that a violent confrontation between two rival groups in Kisumu City left one person dead and several others injured. The clashes also resulted in the torching of nine motorcycles and damage to a police vehicle.

Police said swift intervention led to the arrest of eight suspects, who are currently in custody awaiting arraignment in court. Authorities added that efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals linked to the violence.

In a separate incident in Nyahururu Town, a group of individuals allegedly attempted to disrupt a political rally by pelting stones at attendees, leaving several people with minor injuries. Among those injured was Joseph Gitau, who sustained a chest injury but was treated and discharged.

The National Police Service dismissed allegations that there had been a shooting during the Nyahururu incident, maintaining that no firearm was discharged. Six suspects were arrested in connection with the disturbance and are being held pending court proceedings.

The police warned that no individual, regardless of political affiliation, public office or social status, is above the law.

"Anyone found engaging in violence, sponsoring criminal gangs, inciting supporters or disrupting lawful gatherings will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law," the statement read.

The NPS has appealed to members of the public with information that could assist investigators to report to the nearest police station or use the toll-free emergency numbers 999 and 911, the #FichuaKwaDCI hotline, or WhatsApp reporting channels.

The service reaffirmed its commitment to conducting thorough, impartial and evidence-led investigations to ensure that all those responsible for the violence are brought to justice.

The incidents come amid growing concern over rising political tensions and a series of violent disruptions witnessed in different parts of the country during political and church-related events on Sunday.