Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has disclosed that 355 people were arrested across the country during the June 25 Gen Z anniversary demonstrations, with authorities linking the suspects to various criminal activities reported during the protests.
Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday June 25th 2026, Murkomen said the figure could rise as investigations continue.
“Consequently, a total of 355 arrests were made in connection with the demonstrations, and this is a developing case. It could be more than the 355,” he said.
The CS stated that those taken into custody would face different charges, including robbery, destruction of property, obstructing roads and attempted theft.
According to the government, Nairobi recorded the highest number of arrests with 161 suspects detained, followed by Kajiado with 123 and Kiambu with 36. Additional arrests were reported in Murang’a (12), Bungoma (9), Meru (6), Laikipia (5) and Machakos (3) counties.
Murkomen noted that no arrests were recorded in the North Eastern, Nyanza and Coast regions.
The Interior CS said security agencies acted after receiving intelligence reports suggesting that groups of individuals were being transported into Nairobi with the intention of causing unrest during the memorial activities.
“Acting on credible intelligence that groups were being ferried from other parts of the country to cause breach of peace in Nairobi, our security agencies took measures to protect businesses in the city and avert chaos,” he said.
He defended the security screening conducted on major roads leading into the capital, saying the operation played a key role in maintaining order despite causing delays for some travellers.
Murkomen further observed that most commemorative activities proceeded peacefully, particularly in Nairobi and Mombasa, where families and friends of victims held memorial processions.
“I wish to report that no widespread cases of looting, vandalism, skirmishes or injuries were reported in the country in relation to today’s demonstrations,” he said.
The CS also praised Kenyans for remaining peaceful throughout the day, noting that normal economic activities continued in most parts of the country despite the heightened security presence.
