Confirmed: 355 Arrested During June 25 Anniversary Protests Across Kenya, CS Kipchumba Murkomen Says

By Gedion Nzyoki -

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 25, 2026 — Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen has hailed the largely peaceful conduct of demonstrations held across Kenya on Thursday, saying the country experienced minimal disruptions despite heightened security measures.

Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen addresses the media during a press briefing at Harambee House on Thursday, flanked by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, and other senior security officials. Photo: Kipchumba Murkomen/Facebook.

Speaking during a press briefing on the State of Security in the Country at Harambee House on Thursday evening, Murkomen said the protests, held to mark the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024, Gen Z demonstrations, proceeded without widespread incidents of looting, vandalism, violent clashes, or injuries.

"Today is proof that when demonstrations are conducted in accordance with the provisions of our Constitution, peace and security are guaranteed. This is the political culture we should encourage and promote as a country," Murkomen said.

The Interior CS commended Kenyans for exercising restraint and maintaining peace throughout the day, describing the calm witnessed across the country as a sign of growing political maturity.

"I would like to commend all Kenyans for heeding the Government's call to maintain peace and go about their daily activities today. I also wish to report that no widespread cases of looting, vandalism, skirmishes, or injuries were reported in the country in relation to today's demonstrations. This is not only commendable but also a testament to the maturity of our politics and governance," he said.

Murkomen noted that while peaceful processions were held by families and friends of victims of previous protests in Nairobi and Mombasa, business activities continued uninterrupted in most towns across the country.

He disclosed that security agencies mounted screening operations on major highways leading into Nairobi after receiving what he described as credible intelligence indicating that criminal gangs were being ferried into the capital to infiltrate the demonstrations and cause chaos.

According to the CS, the operation helped avert potential violence and protected businesses within the city, although he acknowledged that the security measures caused inconvenience to some members of the public.

"We regret the inconveniences occasioned by these measures, and at the same time appreciate their effectiveness in securing the city and other parts of the country," he said.

Despite the generally peaceful atmosphere, Murkomen said some individuals allegedly attempted to engage in criminal activities under the guise of participating in the demonstrations.

He revealed that 355 people were arrested across the country in connection with offences allegedly committed during the protests.

Nairobi County recorded the highest number of arrests with 161 suspects, followed by Kajiado (123) and Kiambu (36). Additional arrests were made in Murang'a (12), Bungoma (9), Meru (6), Laikipia (5), and Machakos (3).

Murkomen said those arrested would be arraigned in court to face charges including robbery, vandalism, obstruction of roads, and attempted theft.

On a sad note, the Cabinet Secretary also confirmed that Anthony Gathungu, the Assistant Chief of Kariti Sub-Location in Murang'a County, was injured after being attacked by individuals attempting to erect a barricade in Kandara.

He said Gathungu was treated at Kagunduini Health Centre before being discharged in fair condition.

Murkomen praised security agencies for what he described as their professionalism, commitment, and swift response in maintaining law and order throughout the demonstrations.

"I commend our security agencies for their commitment and dedication to maintaining law and order. They acted with utmost professionalism and responded promptly to concerns raised by wananchi. We salute them for their effective organization and meticulous planning," he said.

He also expressed appreciation to journalists and media houses that he said reported responsibly and accurately on the day's events.

"I wish to thank patriotic journalists and media houses who acted responsibly and reported accurately on the day's events," he stated.

The Cabinet Secretary called on Kenyans to continue safeguarding the country's peace and stability, emphasizing that every citizen has a shared responsibility to protect the nation's future.

Murkomen was accompanied at the press briefing by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, and other senior security officials.