Seven Arraigned in Kiambu Over Violent Kikuyu Protests

Seven individuals were on Monday arraigned before the Kiambu Law Court in connection with the violent demonstrations that rocked Kikuyu town on June 25, 2025, leaving a trail of destruction and looting.

The suspects—Sammy Ndung’u Kariuki alias "Ndoji", Simon Njoroge Hiuhu, Ali Shama Tabet, Lawrence Kariuki Ndung’u, James Njuguna Mwaura, Lewis Kariuki Njuhi, and Peter Njenga Ngina—are facing a raft of serious criminal charges, including arson, robbery with violence, shop breaking, and theft.

Appearing before the court under tight security, the seven were linked to the chaos that erupted during the protests, which began as a public demonstration but quickly descended into lawlessness, with several businesses in Kikuyu town vandalized and goods stolen.

Detectives from Kikuyu Sub-County presented preliminary evidence implicating the suspects in acts of coordinated criminality during the unrest. They accused the group of being among the ringleaders responsible for setting fire to property, forcibly breaking into shops, and robbing business owners and bystanders in broad daylight.

The prosecution, citing the complexity of the case and the need for further investigations, requested that the suspects be held in custody for a period of seven days.

In granting the request, the presiding magistrate ordered that all seven be remanded at Kiambu Police Station as investigators continue gathering evidence and recording witness statements.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) issued a statement shortly after the court appearance, reiterating its commitment to upholding the rule of law and holding accountable those who exploit public demonstrations to commit crimes.

“The DCI will continue to pursue individuals involved in the planning or execution of criminal acts during public unrest. We urge members of the public to express grievances peacefully and within the confines of the law,” read part of the statement.

The June 25 demonstrations were reportedly fueled by discontent over economic hardships and perceived government inaction on youth unemployment. However, local authorities say that criminal elements hijacked the protests, leading to widespread damage estimated in the millions of shillings.

Several business owners have already begun filing formal complaints and submitting CCTV footage, which is expected to form part of the evidence in the ongoing investigation.

The case will be mentioned on July 7, 2025, when the suspects are expected to be returned to court, possibly to face formal charges based on the findings of the ongoing probe.