The police have initiated an investigation into the violence that disrupted a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) delegates’ meeting at Nembure Stadium in Embu County on Saturday afternoon. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has assembled a specialized team to identify the individuals responsible for this incident.
Eastern Regional Police Commander Stephen Chebet confirmed that investigators are actively pursuing suspects involved in the chaos, emphasizing a commitment to bringing those accountable to justice.
“We have commenced investigations into the individuals behind this reprehensible act, and we will ensure they face the consequences,” Chebet stated.
He further explained that the DCI has designated a special team to conduct a thorough investigation and clarify the events that unfolded.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has formed a dedicated team that is currently engaged in these investigations,” Chebet noted, assuring the public that updates would follow upon the probe’s completion.
The violence erupted near the conclusion of the UDA delegates’ meeting, which was attended by the Deputy President and other party officials at Nembure Stadium.
Chebet reported that the meeting had proceeded without incident until a group of uninvited individuals attempted to breach the venue. Security personnel successfully prevented this group from entering the stadium. Subsequently, the group moved to the Embu-Meru Highway, where they began to demonstrate, causing significant disruption.
The police commander indicated that the protesters blocked the highway, setting several vehicles ablaze and vandalizing others. Reports indicate that approximately six vehicles were set on fire, while three others sustained damage during the incident.
Chebet confirmed that three police officers were injured during the altercation, and a member of the public suffered serious injuries and was transported to the hospital.
“We are still assessing the condition of that member of the public,” Chebet remarked, adding that investigators are diligently working to ascertain the full extent of the damage caused during the confrontation.
He confirmed that the police managed to regain control of the situation and restore order. Chebet also reassured that the group did not gain access to the stadium where the Deputy President was conducting the meeting.
“No one accessed the venue where the Deputy President held the meeting,” he stated, adding that the Deputy President completed the meeting peacefully and departed voluntarily.
The police commander encouraged anyone with credible information regarding the violence to come forward and assist the investigative team in identifying those responsible.
Chebet refrained from confirming any claims regarding the perpetrators, stating that investigators require time to establish the facts.
“I cannot affirm or deny the assertions made by the UDA. They may have their information, and we invite anyone with insights to share them with the investigation team,” he said.
The police commander also urged political leaders and the public to practice restraint, allowing rival political groups to conduct their activities without interference. He stressed the importance of permitting political actors to present their policies and engage with voters, while calling on Kenyans to listen to each other and act with decorum and respect.
Chebet assured that the police would continue to offer security to political figures who inform authorities about their meetings, regardless of their political affiliations.
“Indeed, it is our duty to ensure security for all political players, provided they notify the police of their meetings. We are committed to offering the necessary protection,” he affirmed.
