44 of the 56 suspects arrested at Kuresoi North MP Mutai’s home, released
Only 12 suspects of the 56 earlier arrested will face charges over chaos that were experienced in Kuresoi North, Nakuru County.
Police said the group will be presented in court on Monday June 22 to answer charges of arson, assault and malicious damage to property.
At least 56 suspects were earlier arrested at the home of Kuresoi North MP Alfred Mutai following the chaos that were witnessed in the area.
Police said the suspects were waiting for handouts following earlier chaos in the area when they were caught.
Assorted crude weapons were recovered from the home, police said.
However, after interrogation, the 12 including the MP who is at large, were placed at the scene of crime by the witnesses who recorded statements.
Police spokesman Michael Muchiri said teams in the area were looking for more suspects and the MP.
Mutai has defended himself over the claims he caused the chaos. He said he has been reporting cases of goons loitering with crude weapons but police failed to take action.
Police Friday launched a manhunt for Mutai following the violent clashes that disrupted a youth empowerment meeting in Nakuru County, leaving three people with gunshot injuries.
Two others sustained fractures on their legs as are admitted in hospital.
In a statement the NPS said preliminary investigations indicate that the violence at Sirikwa Umoja Grounds in Kuresoi Sub-County erupted during a Youth Empowerment Meeting attended by Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, Oscar Sudi and Irene Njoki.
According to the police, the confrontation involved suspected goons allied to Mutai and supporters of Governor Kihika. Three people sustained gunshot injuries and were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
Police also reported that a bus, which had transported tents and chairs to the venue, was set on fire by unknown individuals during the disturbance.
The NPS said it is pursuing Mutai, whom it described as the prime suspect, and urged the legislator to surrender at the nearest police station to assist investigators in establishing the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Authorities added that efforts are ongoing to arrest other individuals linked to the violence.
Two spent cartridges were recovered at the scene. They were sent for ballistic tests.
The statement also highlighted another incident under investigation that occurred on June 18 at Chemilil Academy in Chemilil Town, Muhoroni Sub-County, where a group of individuals armed with crude weapons allegedly stormed the premises and assaulted several people, causing injuries.
Police said four suspects have been arrested in connection with the Chemilil incident and are assisting with investigations.
They are expected to be arraigned in court once investigations are completed, while detectives continue to pursue additional suspects.
The NPS condemned what it described as rising political intolerance, violence and goonism, warning that those involved in sponsoring criminal gangs, inciting supporters or disrupting lawful political gatherings would face legal action regardless of their status or political affiliation.
The Service called on political leaders and their supporters to exercise restraint, uphold the rule of law and ensure political competition is conducted peacefully and within the confines of the Constitution.
President William Ruto ordered Internal Security Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to crack down on goons who are being used to cause chaos in the country.
He said all those behind the chaos including their sponsors must be arrested and prosecuted.