Police have arrested five people following a disturbance at the first anniversary commemoration of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga at Migwena Cultural Grounds in Bondo Sub-County, Siaya County.
The suspects were arrested after a section of the crowd turned rowdy during the ceremony, forcing security officers to intervene and restore order.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the incident threatened to disrupt the gathering, prompting officers to move in before the situation escalated further.
The five suspects have been identified as Daniel Odhiambo, Gabriel Aloo, Felix Ochieng, Jerry Okello and Edwin Matongo. Police linked them to the violence that occurred during the event.
During the arrests, officers recovered several weapons, including a machete, a sword and a knife. The items have been kept as exhibits as investigations continue.
The suspects remain in police custody as officers complete the necessary procedures ahead of their expected arraignment in court.
Police have not provided further details about the specific roles each suspect is alleged to have played in the disturbance.
The commemoration brought people together to remember Odinga, who served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and remained a major figure in the country’s politics for decades.
The disruption cast a shadow over the gathering, which was intended to honour his life and political legacy. Security officers moved to contain the situation and prevent further violence at the venue.
The DCI said it would continue working with other security agencies to maintain safety during public gatherings and ensure that people suspected of criminal activity are dealt with in accordance with the law.
The arrests are part of the investigation into the incident, with the recovered weapons expected to form part of the evidence as the case progresses.
Police have urged members of the public to share information that could assist investigations into crime and help prevent similar incidents at public events.
The DCI has encouraged anyone with information to report anonymously through its toll-free line, 0800 722 203, or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
The five suspects are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
