| June 28, 2025
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen says police stations were targeted and firearms stolen during June 26, 2025, protests. Five stations were torched, and over 400 injured in politically-instigated violence.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed that what began as commemorative demonstrations on June 26, 2025, turned into organized and politically-driven attacks on security infrastructure across the country. The protests, initially held to honour victims of last year’s June 2024 anti-government demonstrations, spiralled into chaos with widespread destruction and loss of life.
Speaking during a press conference in Nairobi, Murkomen stated that multiple police stations were targeted by individuals he described as “goons” who had clear intentions to access armouries and steal police uniforms.
“The criminals were after guns in the armouries and police uniforms. Five firearms were stolen from Dagoretti Police Post, Kiambu County, while four were burnt at Gachui Police Post,” said Murkomen.
Police Infrastructure Under Siege
The Interior CS confirmed that five police stations were torched during the unrest, including Dagoretti, Ol Kalou, and Molo, with nine stations targeted in total. The attackers also destroyed 88 police vehicles, 27 government-owned vehicles, and 65 civilian vehicles, some of which were parked inside police compounds. Among the destroyed property was even a school bus, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the destruction.
“This was not a spontaneous uprising. What we saw was planned, funded, and politically instigated violence. It was a well-orchestrated campaign of political sabotage,” Murkomen asserted.
Coordinated Vandalism and Political Chants
Murkomen described the protests as a front for deeper political motives. Along major roads including Kiambu and Thika Road, protesters were allegedly heard chanting calls to “occupy State House.”
“The looting and destruction had a clear motive — to instil fear and target properties of politicians, civilians aligned to the government, and innocent Kenyans,” he added.
In Nairobi, where thousands marched peacefully waving national flags, carrying placards and white roses in memory of those killed during the 2024 protests, clashes quickly escalated into violence. Tear gas clouds engulfed parts of the city as law enforcement struggled to regain control.
Casualties and Ongoing Investigations
More than ten people lost their lives in the chaos, according to the Interior CS. Over 400 individuals were injured, including nearly 300 police officers, with some reportedly sustaining life-altering injuries.
“We are currently investigating the deaths and injuries. The exact number and circumstances will be determined as investigations continue,” said Murkomen.
The events of June 26, 2025, come almost a year after the 2024 anti-government protests that claimed over 60 lives. This year’s demonstrations, intended as a peaceful remembrance, have exposed deep national divisions and the fragility of public trust in state institutions.
National Response and Next Steps
In light of the destruction, Murkomen hinted at possible arrests and prosecutions. He warned that the government would not allow political violence to destabilize the country, and called on leaders to desist from incitement.
“We must all agree that peaceful protest is protected under the Constitution, but violence and destruction are not. Those responsible will be held to account,” he concluded.
As the dust settles, Kenyans now wait for the full outcome of investigations and the government’s strategy to prevent future chaos. Meanwhile, civil society groups have called for restraint, truth, and justice for victims on all sides.
