In a swift and coordinated operation, law enforcement officers in Meru County have arrested three suspects linked to the violent arson attack on Magunas Supermarket during the Saba Saba Day protests on July 7, 2025.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the suspects were captured on CCTV footage looting the supermarket before setting it ablaze.
The same individuals are also believed to have broken into and stolen property from two other local businesses—Seven Eleven Lounge and Selelite Supermarket.
During the arrests, police recovered a dark green motorcycle believed to have been used by the suspects during the coordinated looting spree.
The three are currently in custody, undergoing processing ahead of their arraignment in court.
Authorities say more suspects are being pursued as investigations continue.
What began as a demonstration to mark the 35th anniversary of the 1990 pro-democracy protests quickly degenerated into violence and destruction.
Magunas Supermarket, one of the region’s best-known retail outlets, was razed after a mob overwhelmed anti-riot police and stormed the premises.
Eyewitnesses reported that looters disguised as protesters took advantage of the turmoil to steal goods and vandalise property before setting the building on fire.
Shoppers and staff were forced to flee in panic as flames engulfed the structure, causing massive losses and threatening adjacent businesses.
Nearby, Seven Eleven Lounge—a popular entertainment venue in Meru Town—was also targeted by vandals who destroyed equipment and looted valuables.
In a disturbing turn, a Meru County fire truck dispatched to contain the blaze was attacked by protesters after its water supply ran dry.
The vehicle was pelted with stones, forcing emergency
responders to retreat.
The Saba Saba protests, held annually on July 7, commemorate a pivotal moment in Kenya’s political history—the 1990 demonstrations that catalysed the country’s shift toward multi-party democracy
Police have urged residents to come forward with information that may assist in bringing more perpetrators to justice, as authorities continue to piece together events from the day of the unrest.
