Police have arrested 17 people found with what they termed as crude weapons during the by-election in Kasipul constituency.
The individuals, described by police as mostly youths, were apprehended at various points along the Oyugis–Kendu Bay road.
Officers also confiscated five vehicles, which they said were allegedly being used to facilitate the group’s movement.
The arrests were made near Agoro Sare High School, the designated constituency tallying centre where final results will be announced.
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem said officers had opened investigations to establish the group’s intentions.
He noted that security agencies would not allow any form of disruption during the by-election.
“We want politicians and their supporters to shun violence and allow the election exercise to go on smoothly. There shouldn’t be any disruptions to the election,” Koilem said.
He urged political actors to allow police to carry out their security duties without interference.
According to police, incidents of this nature can cause panic and may affect the electoral process.
“The vehicles have been taken to Oyugis Police Station for further inspection. The 17 individuals are also in police custody,” Koilem said.
The police were also investigating a separate incident involving a firearm reportedly taken from a bodyguard assigned to Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma.
“We have some crucial leads to retrieve the gun. The investigation process is still ongoing,” Koilem said.
The Kasipul parliamentary seat has attracted intense interest, with the race featuring Philip Aroko, running as an Independent candidate, and Boyd Were of the ODM party.
The two are seen as the leading contenders in the by-election.
