Three activists remain in custody as DCI seeks extended detention over June 25 unrest

The activists, John Mulingwa Nzau, also known as Garang, Mark Amiani, alias Generali, and Francis Mutunge Mwangi, alias Chebukati, were apprehended on June 27 while traveling on a Randa Coach Services bus bound for Mombasa.

 The vehicle, registration number KCE 959X, was intercepted at Konza City on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway following intelligence reports.According to court documents, the trio is under investigation for a raft of offences, including arson, theft, housebreaking, burglary, and malicious damage to property—all allegedly committed during the chaos that erupted in the Central Business District.

In an affidavit, the DCI argues that the suspects were fleeing Nairobi following the violence that saw private property vandalised, police stations attacked, and widespread looting reported.

During their arrest, police recovered six mobile phones and a notebook labelled "FORUM CIV", which reportedly contains names, plans, and logistical details related to the demonstrations.

Investigators say preliminary findings point to the suspects as key figures in the planning and coordination of violent elements that hijacked the protests. “We are yet to subject the recovered phones to forensic analysis.

We believe the devices may contain vital information relevant to the ongoing investigations,” the lead officer stated.

The DCI maintains that releasing the suspects at this stage could jeopardize ongoing investigations and pose a risk to witnesses and evidence integrity. The suspects are also considered potential flight risks.