Police have launched a manhunt for Kuresoi North MP Alfred Mutai following a violent confrontation between his supporters and those allied to Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika that left three people nursing gunshot wounds in Kuresoi Sub-County.
In a statement issued on Friday, the National Police Service (NPS) said preliminary investigations indicate that the violence broke out during a youth empowerment meeting held at Sirikwa Umoja Grounds. The event was attended by Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, and Bahati MP Irene Njoki.
According to police, the chaos erupted after a confrontation between suspected goons linked to the Kuresoi North legislator and supporters of Governor Kihika.
“Several individuals sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment,” the statement signed by NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga read.
The violence also resulted in the destruction of property, including a bus registration number KDQ 155G, which had been used to transport tents and chairs to the venue. The vehicle was reportedly set ablaze by unknown individuals during the unrest.
Police have identified MP Alfred Mutai as the prime suspect in the incident and say he is currently on the run.
“The Service is pursuing the prime suspect, Hon. Alfred Mutai, who is currently on the run. Police officers have launched a manhunt to apprehend him and other persons connected to the incident,” said Nyaga.
The National Police Service has called on the legislator to voluntarily surrender to the nearest police station and cooperate with investigators as they seek to establish the circumstances that led to the shooting and subsequent violence.
The incident has heightened concerns over rising political intolerance and violence in parts of the country, particularly as political leaders intensify grassroots mobilization activities.
NPS warned that anyone found engaging in violence, sponsoring criminal gangs, inciting supporters, or disrupting lawful public gatherings would face legal consequences regardless of their political status or position.
“No person, regardless of social status, political affiliation, or public office, is above the law,” Nyaga emphasized.
The police further urged political leaders and their supporters to exercise restraint and uphold peace, cautioning against the use of violence to settle political disagreements.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing as security agencies work to identify and arrest all those involved in the clashes.
