’14 More Days.’ Prosecutors Seek to Detain Omtata, 22 Others Arrested During Anti-abduction Protests

Busia senator Okiya Omtata during the anti abduction protestors in Nairobi CBD on Monday, 30 /Photo courtesy/

Director of Public Prosecutions  on Tuesday 31, December 2024 asked the Milimani Law Courts to detain the 23 individuals arrested during the anti – abductions for 14 more days.

According to the affidavit sworn by CPL Anthony Kerini, the suspects are accused of using social media platforms to incite public unrest against the state.

The police have sought permission to access their mobile devices to extract communication data, including WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook messages which they believe contain evidence of incitement.

The respondents, including 2027 presidential hopeful and Busia senator Okiya Omtata , face accusations of incitement to violence, unlawful assembly and creating public disturbance.

The affidavit further reveals that CCTV footage from nearby establishments, including Java and Naivas Supermarkets, is yet to be obtained to support the investigations.

The prosecutors argue that releasing the suspects could compromise public peace and stability, citing concerns over the suspects’ alleged use of social media to spread discontent.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) has requested 14 additional days to complete investigations and finalize witness statements.

The arrest of anti – abduction protestors has met criticism from opposition leaders and government critics.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democratic Action Party Eugene Wamalwa among other opposition leaders have asked the government to immediately release those who are being detained after yesterday’s arrest.

Kalonzo and his accomplice who joined other Kenyans to stand in solidarity with Omtata and the other 22 asked president Ruto who they termed ‘chief commander of abduction ‘ to end the abductions

“We demand that the Chief Commander of the Abduction Squad, Mr. William Ruto, put an end to this repulsive and criminal activity.” Mr. Musyoka said in a statement

They further asked the government to free all the 83 youngsters who have been kidnapped in the last three months and disclose the whereabouts of the 29 missing young Kenyans.