Police in Meru have arrested three suspects linked to the arson attack and looting of businesses during the protests on July 7, 2025.
The coordinated operation followed a detailed investigation involving analysis of CCTV footage and intelligence gathering.
According to police reports, the individuals were captured on camera participating in the torching of Magunas Supermarket and the break-ins at Seven Eleven Lounge and Selelite Supermarket. The suspects were also reportedly involved in looting and theft of goods during the chaos.
''In a well-coordinated operation, Meru law enforcement officers have apprehended three suspects behind the arson attack on Magunas Supermarket on July 7, 2025. The suspects, (name withheld), were captured on CCTV cameras looting and setting fire to Magunas Supermarket as well as breaking into and stealing from Seven Eleven Lounge and Selelite Supermarket,'' reads part of the police report.
As part of the operation, authorities recovered a dark green motorcycle with registration number KMGN 839F, believed to have been used in the execution of the attacks. The bike is now being held as part of the evidence in the ongoing investigations.
The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further processing as police prepare to present them in court. Investigators have assured the public that efforts to identify and arrest other individuals involved in the attacks are actively underway.
Law enforcement has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring order and pursuing all perpetrators involved in the destruction and looting of property during the demonstrations.
The events that occurred during the Saba Saba Day protests saw goons specifically flock to the Makutano area in Meru in large numbers, subsequently frustrating efforts by essential service providers to restore normalcy.
Notably, a fire truck belonging to the Meru County government, which was deployed to contain the supermarket fire, was pelted with stones by protesters after it ran out of water.
A Kenya Red Cross vehicle, which was on-site to offer first aid to injured civilians in Makutano, was also vandalised during the melee.
The Magunas incident was arguably the worst case of a business raid from the protests on the Saba Saba Day, although there were other similar incidents reported in other counties.
In Kirinyaga, a retail store known as Nice Supermarket had its owners counting losses after protesters pelted display windows with boulders.
A similar incident was reported in Nakuru County, where protesters broke into a supermarket, presumably with the intention of stealing, but police responded on time.
