Police have arrested 56 persons of interest following violent disruptions that erupted during a public event attended by Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika in Kuresoi North Sub-County, Nakuru County.

The National Police Service (NPS), in a statement issued via X on Saturday, June 20, 2026, confirmed the arrests, saying investigations had been intensified to establish the circumstances surrounding the chaos that interrupted the high-profile gathering.

The event, held on June 19, brought together Governor Kihika, senior government officials, county leaders and members of the public before violence broke out, leaving several people injured and sparking political tensions in the area.

Police launch investigations

The NPS said detectives had already begun reviewing evidence and pursuing all leads linked to the disturbances.

“The National Police Service has launched investigations into violent disturbances that erupted on June 19, 2026, during a public event in Kuresoi North Sub-County, Nakuru County,” the statement said.

Authorities revealed that 56 individuals had so far been arrested in connection with the incident and remained in custody as investigations continue.

Police also recovered several exhibits from the suspects, which investigators believe may have been used during the disruptions.

However, the NPS did not immediately disclose the nature of the recovered items or whether additional arrests are expected.

Violence marred the empowerment event

The unrest occurred during a women and youth empowerment event held at Umoja Secondary School in Kuresoi North.

The gathering had been led by Governor Kihika and attended by several political leaders when chaos suddenly erupted, forcing security officers to intervene.

The incident left at least three people nursing gunshot wounds.

The victims, identified as Job Kiprono, Mohamed Ali and Isaac Cheruiyot, were rushed to Molo Level 4 Hospital for treatment after sustaining injuries to their hands and legs during the confrontation.

Speaking from his hospital bed, Kiprono claimed the violence broke out after Kuresoi North MP Alfred Mutai allegedly arrived at the event.

The claims have not been independently verified, and authorities are yet to release findings on the exact trigger of the violence.

Leaders demand accountability

Following the incident, local leaders condemned the violence and called for swift action against those responsible.

Leaders led by Kipkorir Dude and Kibet Langat visited the injured victims at Molo Level 4 Hospital and urged security agencies to conduct thorough investigations.

Langat further appealed to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to investigate allegations surrounding the shooting and ensure accountability for those found culpable.

The leaders also raised concerns about rising political intolerance in the area and warned against the use of violence to settle political differences.

NPS vows firm action

The National Police Service has pledged to pursue all those involved and ensure the law takes its course.

“The National Police Service reaffirms its commitment to conducting thorough investigations, meticulously examining all evidence and holding those responsible accountable in accordance with the law,” the statement said.

The latest arrests mark one of the largest crackdowns linked to political violence in recent months and come as security agencies seek to curb rising tensions ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Investigations remain ongoing, with police expected to question the persons of interest and review video footage, witness accounts and other evidence collected from the scene.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and allow investigators to complete their work as efforts continue to establish the full circumstances behind the violence that disrupted the event.