The National Police Service (NPS) has confirmed the arrest of five individuals in connection with the vandalism of government vehicles during a raid on the home of Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya on Monday, May 19.
According to a statement released on Saturday, May 24, the suspects were apprehended in Kitale town following a targeted operation launched after supporters of the governor attacked vehicles belonging to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
The five suspects are accused of deflating tyres and damaging five official vehicles used by EACC and DCI officers who were conducting a corruption-related search at Governor Natembeya’s residence.
“Following this incident, a targeted police operation was launched within Kitale town to identify and apprehend those responsible,” the NPS said.
“As a result, five individuals were apprehended today, May 24, 2025, in connection with the offence.
They are expected to face charges of malicious damage to property, among other related offences.”
Police further confirmed that the suspects are in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations to identify more individuals involved in the attack.
“The operation remains active as efforts continue to trace additional individuals linked to the incident,” the statement added.
The May 19 raid, which led to Governor Natembeya’s arrest, targeted his home and four other premises.
According to the EACC, the operation was part of investigations into alleged irregular procurement and fictitious payments amounting to sh1.4 billion by the Trans Nzoia County Government during the 2022/2023 and 2024/2025 financial years.
The raid triggered a strong reaction from residents, many of whom confronted the officers at the scene while chanting the governor’s slogan, “Tawe Movement.”
Protesters also blocked the Eldoret-Kitale highway with stones and burning tyres, paralysing transport and later storming Kitale town, where they brought business activities to a halt.
In videos that circulated widely, the crowd was seen singing in support of the governor: “Natembeya, we love you so much, forever.”
Governor Natembeya, who faces charges including two counts of conflict of interest and one count of unlawful acquisition of public property, was released on Tuesday, May 20, on a sh1 million bond or sh500,000 cash bail. He has also been barred from accessing his office for the next 60 days pending further investigations.
Police have urged calm in the region and warned against further acts of obstruction or damage, stating that any interference with law enforcement operations will be met with legal consequences.
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