Detectives have recovered looted government property and arrested 25 individuals following violent protests that broke out in Kikuyu on Wednesday, June 25. The suspects, who were arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court at the Ruiru Law Courts, will remain in police custody for 14 days to allow further investigations.

In a statement released on Friday, June 27, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed that the protests turned chaotic, with demonstrators torching the Kikuyu Law Courts, sub-county offices, and several government vehicles including tractors and tuk-tuks.

“As a result, 25 suspects have been arrested and arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court at the Ruiru Law Courts. Detectives obtained a 14-day custodial order to complete their investigations," the statement read.

According to the DCI, the suspects were linked to acts of arson and looting during the protests.

In the course of their investigations, officers recovered stolen items dumped in bushes within the Mai-ii-hii and Kabete areas.

“Additionally, two steel windows, a steel door, and a water tank, all stolen from the County Government's physical planning offices during the protests, were recovered in a bush in the Mai-ii-hii and Kabete areas,” the DCI added.

Authorities said the search for more suspects is still ongoing, with detectives following leads to identify and apprehend others believed to have taken part in the destruction and looting.

The National Police Service has cautioned members of the public to avoid destructive behaviour during demonstrations, warning that any such acts will lead to arrests and prosecution.

“The National Police Service urges members of the public to exercise restraint and avoid engaging in destructive behaviour during protests, as such actions will be met with the full force of the law," the statement concluded.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the government is still assessing the full extent of damage and casualties from the protests.

“We are still gathering information about the circumstances surrounding these tragic events. Accountability will be ensured,” Murkomen said.

Nationwide protests, which took place across at least 24 counties, turned violent in several towns.

Human rights groups have reported that at least 16 people were killed, though government sources have confirmed 10 deaths.

At least 27 government vehicles and 65 private vehicles were damaged or burnt, some inside police stations and government compounds. Among the private vehicles was a school bus.

The National Police Service reiterated that while peaceful demonstrations are protected by the Constitution, violence will be dealt with firmly.

“While peaceful assembly is a constitutional right, violence and lawlessness are criminal acts that will not be tolerated,” police said in a statement posted on X.