Police have launched a manhunt for Kuresoi North MP Alfred Mutai after naming him the prime suspect in a violent incident that disrupted a youth empowerment event in Kuresoi, Nakuru County, on Friday.
The unrest broke out at Sirikwa Umoja Grounds during a programme attended by Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika and other political leaders after groups of suspected supporters allied to the MP clashed with those aligned to the Governor.
In the ensuing chaos, at least three people were shot and injured. A bus, Reg. No. KDQ 155G, which had ferried tents and chairs to the venue, was also set ablaze.
In a statement on Friday evening, the National Police Service (NPS) said that it was pursuing Mutai and other persons linked to the violence.
“The Service is pursuing the prime suspect, Alfred Mutai, who is currently on the run. Police officers have launched a manhunt to apprehend him and other persons connected to the incident,” NPS said.
“We urge Mutai to present himself at the nearest police station to assist investigators in establishing the circumstances surrounding the shooting. No person, regardless of social status, political affiliation, or public office, is above the law.”
The development comes after police arrested three suspects in connection with another violent attack at Chemilil Academy in Muhoroni Sub-County, Kisumu County, on Thursday, where several people were assaulted after a group armed with crude weapons stormed the premises.
The suspects, Bernard Ouma, Thomas Onyango and Walter Owa are assisting investigators and are expected to be arraigned once investigations are completed, while efforts to trace other suspects are ongoing.
NPS subsequently condemned what it described as rising cases of political violence and intolerance, warning that those found organising, financing or participating in such acts would face legal action.
“Such acts undermine public order, threaten national cohesion, and violate the constitutional rights of citizens to peacefully associate, assemble, and participate in political activities,” NPS said.
“Political competition must be conducted within the confines of the law, with mutual respect and tolerance for divergent views.”
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