Police have arrested 15 suspects along the Kisumu-Kericho Road, alleging they were hired to disrupt political activities in the area.

The National Police Service (NPS) has announced the arrest of 15 suspects who were allegedly planning to disrupt political activities in the Kisumu-Kericho area.

The suspects were arrested on Saturday, August 15, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation along the busy Kisumu-Kericho Road, according to the NPS.

In a press statement issued on Sunday, August 16, National Police Service Communication Director and Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said officers intercepted the suspects as part of efforts to maintain law and order.

“The National Police Service informs the public that, acting within its mandate to maintain law and order and following intelligence-led operations, officers intercepted and arrested fifteen suspects on 15 August 2026 along the Kisumu-Kericho Road,” Nyaga said.

15 Suspects Arrested Along Kisumu-Kericho Road With Crude Weapons, Police Say

15 suspects found with crude weapons

Police said the suspects were found in possession of various crude weapons at the time of their arrest.

The 15 suspects have since been placed in police custody as investigations continue ahead of their expected arraignment in court.

“The suspects, found in possession of various crude weapons, are in lawful custody pending court arraignment,” the National Police Service said.

The arrests come amid increased political activity in different parts of Kenya, raising concerns within security agencies over possible attempts to disrupt political gatherings.

Police allege suspects were hired to cause chaos

Preliminary investigations have allegedly linked the suspects to a plan to interfere with political activities in the area.

According to the police, the suspects were allegedly hired to cause disruption during political activities.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that they are hired criminals who allegedly planned to disrupt political activities in the area,” the NPS said.

The police, however, did not disclose who allegedly hired the suspects or identify the specific political event they were reportedly planning to disrupt.

The allegations remain subject to further investigations and the court process.

NPS issues warning to politicians

The National Police Service has issued a stern warning to politicians, political organisers and other individuals against actions that could trigger violence or disrupt public order.

The Service said it would take action against anyone found engaging in incitement, provocation or other unlawful conduct.

“The National Police Service warns politicians, organisers, and all other individuals against incitement, provocation, or any conduct likely to breach the peace,” the statement said.

Police further warned that anyone found violating the law would face prosecution.

“Offenders will face the full force of the law,” the NPS added.

Police directed to protect peaceful assemblies

While warning individuals planning to cause disorder, the NPS also directed officers deployed to political rallies and public gatherings to uphold professionalism and impartiality.

The Service said police officers must balance the responsibility of maintaining public order with the constitutional right of Kenyans to peacefully assemble.

“All officers deployed to political events or public gatherings are directed to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, impartiality, and restraint,” Nyaga said.

Officers have also been directed to follow the Service's Standard Operating Procedures when handling political gatherings.

“They must facilitate the right to peaceful assembly while ensuring public order and safety, and remain strictly guided by the Standard Operating Procedures,” the NPS said.

The Service warned that its enforcement measures would apply to anyone facilitating violence or unlawful activity.

“Any individual found to be facilitating violence, disorder, or unlawful activity will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law, without exception,” police said.

NPS urges Kenyans to report suspicious activities

The National Police Service has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspected criminal or suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.

Kenyans can report incidents at the nearest police station or through the emergency toll-free numbers 999 and 911.

The NPS also directed the public to use the DCI reporting platform #FichuaKwaDCI on 0800 722 203 or its WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.

The police said public cooperation would be critical in preventing planned criminal activities and maintaining peace during political events.

Police reaffirm non-partisan position

The National Police Service also sought to reassure Kenyans that it would remain neutral while enforcing the law during political activities.

The Service said its actions would be guided by the Constitution, the National Police Service Act and the rule of law.

“The National Police Service remains strictly non-partisan, guided solely by the Constitution, the National Police Service Act, and the rule of law,” the statement said.

The NPS further reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens' rights while maintaining public order.

“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to maintaining public order and protecting every citizen's constitutional right to peaceful assembly,” the police said.

What we know about the Kisumu-Kericho Road arrests

  • Number arrested: 15 suspects
  • Date of arrest: August 15, 2026
  • Location: Kisumu-Kericho Road
  • Items allegedly recovered: Various crude weapons
  • Police allegation: The suspects were allegedly hired to disrupt political activities
  • Current status: In police custody pending court arraignment
  • Source: National Police Service

The suspects are expected to face the next stage of the legal process as investigations into the alleged plot continue.