Police officers in Busia have arrested eight suspects in connection to the chaos that broke up during a visit by Deputy President William Ruto in Busia yesterday.

The eight are suspected to be part of a rowdy group which allegedly stoned and blocked motorists at Korinda area and indiscriminately pelted stones at motorists, resulting in injuries and destruction to property.

Fredrick Okoth, Reuben Barasa, Moses Oridi, Friday Ouma, Michael Omondi Alwando, George Odongo, David Ouma and Wejuli Shalmin were arrested in connection with the offences.

They are in custody at Busia Police Station pending their arraignment in court to answer to charges of malicious damage to properties, incitement to violence, creating disturbance among others.

The National Police Service has urged the public to shun acts of violence, the electioneering phase nears.

“We shall take firm and decisive action against those involved in acts of election-related criminality, irrespective of their age and standing in society,” the police said.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi condemned the act, saying the government will adopt zero tolerance on anyone disrupting political gatherings because political leaders and aspirants are free to move anywhere in the country.

Speaking during the launch of Trinity TV and Radio in Ol-Kalau, Matiang’i ordered the arrest and arraignment of organisers and perpetrators of the violent disruption in Busia.

In addition, the CS reiterated that security agents are supposed to act fairly and demonstrate neutrality when handling political gatherings.

“Our differences of opinion or political affiliation is not a reason to attack others. It is fine to have different opinions, but people must be allowed to do what they are doing,” Matiang’i said.

Several vehicles were destroyed on Saturday as a section of youth protested against Ruto’s tour of Busia Town.

Ruto is reported to have detoured to Korinda junction on the Kisumu/Busia highway when he was met by rowdy youth, who barricaded the road, lit a bonfire and pelted his convoy with stones.