The National Police Service (NPS) Friday launched a manhunt for Kuresoi North MP Alfred Mutai following violent clashes that disrupted a youth empowerment meeting in Nakuru County on Friday, leaving several people with gunshot injuries.
In a statement signed by police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, 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 Alfred Mutai and supporters of Governor Kihika. Several 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.
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 three suspects — Bernard Ouma, Thomas Onyango and Walter Owa — 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.
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