The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), on Saturday, April 1, arrested 14 individuals suspected to have been involved in violence witnessed in Migori and Kisumu Counties.
According to DCI, two prime suspects were part of the gang that broke into Jamia Supermarket in Kisumu County and looted goods worth over Ksh5 million.
"The two were arrested and foodstuffs including packets of unga, sugar, rice, and tea leaves suspected to have been stolen from the store recovered," DCI detailed.
After being arraigned at the Kisumu Law courts, the detectives were granted 10 days to hold the two suspects as the investigations into the incident were being finalised.
On the other hand, the 12 men were rounded up in Suna East after erecting illegal barriers along the Migori- Isebania Highway and Namba-Kakrao bypass, and extorting money from members of the public amounting to Ksh 2,645 in coins of 20,10 and notes of 50, 100, 200 and 500.
Meanwhile, the 14, in custody at Migori police station, are expected to take a plea on Tuesday, March 2, 2023.
Jamia Supermarket was among the property vandalised and looted by unknown people during the Thursday, March 30, nationwide protests.
Kenyans came together to contribute to restocking the business after the owner sent an emotional message online. As of Saturday, April 1, Kenyans had raided Ksh240,000.
Also in Kisumu, suspected raided the newly launched Kwee Farewell Parlour and looted computers and other equipment.
The bi-weekly protests declared by Azimio party leader Raila Odinga have been a subject of debate among Kenyans.
On March 28, Director of Public Prosecutions Noordin Haji directed Inspector General Japhet Koome to probe into the cases of theft and vandalism reported during the protests.
On his part, the IG urged members of the public to be peaceful as they picket across the streets and respect other people's properties.
"All effort will be put to protect life and property. This will be done without fear or favour regardless of any amount of threat of intimidation," Koome stated.
