Kikuyu Under Siege: Fires, Roadblocks and Looting Stall Business

Business activities in Kikuyu, Kiambu County, stalled on April 11, 2026, after unrest erupted along the Southern Bypass and key access roads, hours before a planned rally by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Earlier, tension had built as suspected groups of youths blocked sections of the highway, lit bonfires, and disrupted movement into the town. Fear spread quickly among residents, traders, and motorists who depend on the busy route.

The situation then escalated, forcing many businesses to shut down abruptly. Reports indicated that some premises were looted as disorder spread across parts of Kikuyu.

Transport operations also suffered major setbacks. Truck drivers along the Southern Bypass reported heavy damage after attackers targeted their vehicles.

Traders Condemn Attacks, Call for Restraint

Affected traders and drivers condemned the violence, terming it economically harmful and unnecessary. They urged political leaders to exercise restraint and promote tolerance.

They warned that such chaos directly hurts ordinary citizens who rely on daily trade and transport. They also called on leaders to uphold the rule of law and protect livelihoods.

Also Read: Ichung’wah Accuses Gachagua of Mobilising Goons Ahead of Kikuyu Rally

Drivers Demand Free and Fair Political Environment

At the same time, drivers insisted on the need for a safe political climate. They urged politicians to allow voters to exercise their constitutional rights freely, without intimidation or violence.

Security agencies have since increased patrols in Kikuyu and surrounding areas to restore calm and protect property ahead of the anticipated rally.

Gachagua Accuses Murkomen, Omollo of Chaos

Meanwhile, Rigathi Gachagua accused Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo of orchestrating the unrest.

He claimed that organised groups blocked roads, lit fires, and attacked motorists along key routes into Kikuyu.

Also Read: Gachagua Breaks Silence After Goons Block Roads Leading to Kikuyu Ahead of His Visit

“The groups came from Nairobi’s informal settlements and disrupted traffic by placing rocks on roads and deflating tyres,” he further alleged.

Additionally, he claimed that the attackers operated with the knowledge of security officials and political actors opposed to his meeting.

The incident highlights rising political tension in the region, as leaders trade accusations while businesses and residents deal with the economic impact of the unrest.

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A photo collage showing a section of the South Bypass closed with burning tyres and a truck attempting to flee. PHOTO/ Kenyans.