Protests Erupt as Police Arrest Suspected Goon Over Homa Bay Rally Chaos

Police have arrested Kassim Abdi Sebu, popularly known as Abdi Sebo, over an alleged assault offence, months after detectives sought him for questioning following the violence that disrupted the Linda Mwananchi movement’s tour of Homa Bay County.

Sebo was arrested at Homa Bay Bus Park on Thursday night, October 8, during an operation by police.

The arrest followed a warrant issued by the Homa Bay Law Courts on August 14 over an alleged offence of assault causing actual bodily harm.

His name had also featured in police investigations into the August clashes, when a political tour by opposition leaders descended into violence, leaving people injured and vehicles damaged.

Why Police Wanted Abdi Sebo

On August 18, National Police Service spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga directed Sebo and Oliver Jaoko, alias Olivetti, to report to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to record statements over the unrest.

Two days earlier, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino were among leaders touring Homa Bay under the Linda Mwananchi banner when groups of youths disrupted their movement.

Also Read: Sifuna Breaks Silence on Homa Bay Chaos and ‘Yemen’ Dusty Roads

Roads were blocked with stones and logs, while vehicles came under attack. One vehicle was torched, and several people, including journalists, were injured in the violence.

The clashes disrupted movement around Homa Bay town and drew police attention to suspected organisers and participants.

Detectives began pursuing individuals believed to have been involved, with Sebo among those directed to present themselves for questioning.

Violence Disrupts Linda Mwananchi Tour

Trouble surrounding the August 16 visit affected more than the political delegation. Barricades obstructed traffic, leaving motorists and other road users struggling to get through, while attacks on vehicles heightened tension around the town.

Delegation’s supporters and groups of youths clashed as the leaders attempted to move through the area.

Damage to vehicles and reports of injuries followed, prompting investigations into the people behind the attacks.

Also Read: NPS Issues Fresh Directives on Political Rallies Ahead of 2027 Elections, Warns Goons

Police subsequently sought statements from individuals linked to the unrest as detectives worked to establish responsibility for the violence.

Sebo’s earlier summons was for questioning; it did not amount to a finding of guilt in connection with the rally clashes.

Police arrested him on Thursday over an outstanding warrant for an alleged assault offence. Police statements or court records would be needed to establish any additional charges or links to the rally violence.

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Protests erupt at Homa Bay Bus Park on Thursday night, October 8, during the reported arrest of Abdi Sebo. PHOTO/ Screengrab.