Gachagua Alleges Presence of Goons Ahead of Dagoretti Meeting
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has alleged the presence of organised groups in Dagoretti ahead of his planned meeting, claiming they intend to disrupt the gathering and attack civilians.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Gachagua said the individuals were similar to those he claimed were involved in unrest in Kikuyu the previous weekend.
He further accused elements within the National Police Service of failing to act, and in some instances working alongside criminal groups.
“I have repeatedly reminded the Inspector General that under his leadership, goons have become part of the National Police Service, but no action has been taken,” Gachagua said, referring to Inspector General Douglas Kanja.
The former deputy president also cited an earlier incident at ACK Witima Church in Othaya, where he alleged that police officers, alongside goons, disrupted a church service, attacked congregants and destroyed property.
He claimed that despite the individuals allegedly being identified, no disciplinary measures have been taken against the officers involved.
Gachagua further alleged that during last weekend’s events in Kikuyu, police officers failed to intervene as criminals targeted motorists along the Nakuru Highway and Southern Bypass. He also claimed that a group of armed and hooded officers later used force, including tear gas, against civilians.
“The same squad has now arrived in Dagoretti ahead of my meeting this afternoon to cause mayhem and attack innocent Kenyans,” he said.
In response to rising concerns over insecurity, police have indicated that more than 80 suspected criminals have been arrested in Nairobi in recent operations.
Church leaders have also condemned what they described as increasing incidents of organised violence, warning that it poses a threat to public safety and national stability.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has been summoned by Parliament to address the issue. He recently stated that politicians are currently among the biggest security threats facing the country.