Murkomen Reveals Why Plain-Clothes Officers Were Deployed During Protests

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has defended the deployment of some police officers in plain clothes during the June 25, 2026 demonstrations, saying the move was part of broader security measures aimed at protecting law enforcement officers and maintaining public order.

Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday June 25, Murkomen said security agencies use different strategies to prevent officers from being targeted while carrying out their duties.

According to the Interior CS, police officers may sometimes operate without uniforms as a security precaution, particularly in situations where they could become targets.

“In the security sector, several measures are put in place to protect security officers from being targeted. These include the use of designated number plates, and in some instances, police officers may not wear uniforms as a security precaution,” Murkomen said.

He maintained that such measures are common within security operations and are intended to enhance the safety of officers while on duty.

DCI Officers Mingled With Citizens

Murkomen further revealed that officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) were deployed among members of the public during the demonstrations to identify and arrest individuals committing crimes.

“For example, there are many DCI officers who were mingling with citizens across the country to ensure that if they see anybody committing an offence, they quickly arrest them and be able to bring them before the law. So many security measures are applied, and that is one of them,” he added.

Murkomen Praises Peaceful Demonstrations

The Cabinet Secretary commended Kenyans for maintaining peace during the commemoration of the second anniversary of the Gen Z protests.

He said there were no widespread cases of looting, vandalism, skirmishes or injuries linked to the demonstrations, describing the day as evidence that peaceful protests can take place within the framework of the Constitution.

“Today is proof that when demonstrations are conducted in accordance with the provisions of our Constitution, peace and security are guaranteed,” Murkomen said.

He added that families and friends of victims of past protests, alongside members of the public, held peaceful processions in Nairobi and Mombasa, while most towns across the country continued with normal business activities.

Also Read:Murkomen Issues Fresh Directives on ID Services

Security Agencies Acted on Intelligence

Murkomen also disclosed that security agencies mounted screening operations on major roads leading into Nairobi after receiving intelligence that criminal groups were being mobilised to disrupt peace in the capital.

According to him, the measures helped prevent chaos and contributed to the calm witnessed in Nairobi and its surrounding areas.

“Acting on credible intelligence that goons were being ferried from other parts of the country to cause a breach of peace in Nairobi, our security agencies took measures to protect businesses in the city and avert chaos,” he said.

While acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the road checks, Murkomen said the operations proved effective in safeguarding the city and other parts of the country.

Also Read:LIVE BLOG: Police Arrest Eric Omondi During June 25 Anniversary Protests

355 Arrested Across the Country

Despite the largely peaceful demonstrations, Murkomen said some individuals attempted to commit crimes under the guise of participating in protests.

“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.

Nairobi recorded the highest number of arrests at 161, followed by Kajiado with 123 and Kiambu with 36. Other arrests were reported in Murang’a (12), Bungoma (9), Meru (6), Laikipia (5) and Machakos (3).

Murkomen said those arrested would be arraigned in court to face charges including robbery, vandalism, road obstruction and attempted theft.

Assistant Chief Injured in Murang’a

The Interior CS also reported that Anthony Gathungu, the Assistant Chief of Kariti Sub-Location in Murang’a County, sustained injuries after being attacked by individuals who were allegedly attempting to erect a barricade in Kandara.

Murkomen said the administrator was treated at Kagunduini Health Centre and later discharged in fair condition.

The Cabinet Secretary praised security officers for what he described as professionalism and dedication in maintaining law and order during the demonstrations.

He also thanked journalists and media houses for reporting responsibly on the day’s events.

“We all have an equal stake in the future of our country; let us guard our peace and stability jealously,” Murkomen said.

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Murkomen Reveals Why Plain-Clothes Officers Were Deployed During Demonstrations
PHOTO/ Murkomen