DCI arrests suspect over Githurai vehicle fire

Man arrested

Detectives have arrested a man believed to be linked to the torching of a motor vehicle during recent fuel-related demonstrations at Githurai Roundabout. 

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the suspect was arrested in Ruiru following what investigators described as crucial leads obtained during ongoing investigations into the incident.

According to the agency, the suspect is currently being processed as detectives continue efforts to identify and apprehend other individuals who may have participated in the attack.

The vehicle was set ablaze during demonstrations that turned violent amid public protests over fuel-related concerns. The incident was among several cases of destruction of property reported in different areas during the unrest.

In a statement, the DCI said investigations remain active and that more arrests could follow as officers pursue additional leads.

The agency reiterated that violence, arson and destruction of property remain criminal offences punishable under the law.

“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations reiterates that violence, arson, and destruction of property are serious criminal offences. Those found culpable will be pursued and subjected to the full force of the law,” the agency said.

The arrest comes as authorities continue to warn members of the public against engaging in criminal activities during demonstrations.

Investigators have increasingly relied on witness accounts, intelligence reports, forensic evidence and digital leads to identify individuals suspected of participating in criminal acts during public protests.

The DCI also appealed to members of the public to continue sharing information that could assist investigations, assuring informants of confidentiality.

The latest arrest adds to a growing number of arson-related investigations being handled by detectives across the country.

In a separate case, on April 26, detectives arrested a 56-year-old man in connection with a deadly arson attack that claimed the lives of nine members of a family in Upanda village, Sigomere, in Ugunja Sub-county.

Police said the suspect was arrested in Kibra, Nairobi, while having supper with his children after investigators received information about his whereabouts.

Authorities said he had allegedly gone into hiding after learning that detectives were pursuing him over the incident.

The arrest came a day after the fatal fire that wiped out an entire household, including a father, mother and their seven children.

Investigators later recovered mobile phones from the suspect for forensic examination as they sought to establish whether other individuals may have been involved in planning or executing the attack.

Police also arrested another suspect during the investigation after recovering a fuel container believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.

The bodies of the nine victims were taken to Siaya County Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem examinations as detectives expanded investigations.

At the time, Nyanza regional head of the DCI George Mutonya said investigators were pursuing additional suspects believed to have played a role in the killings.

The latest arrest in the Githurai vehicle-burning case comes as the agency continues efforts to hold individuals accountable for arson and other offences committed during public disturbances, with investigations still ongoing.