Police Nab Suspects Behind Magunas Supermarket Arson and Looting During Saba Saba Chaos
In a dramatic turn of events, police in Meru have arrested three suspects believed to be behind the fiery arson and looting of Magunas Supermarket during the chaotic Saba Saba demonstrations on July 7, 2025.
The arrests, made during a late-night sting operation, followed a detailed analysis of CCTV footage and intelligence from the public.
“In a well-coordinated operation, Meru law enforcement officers have apprehended three suspects behind the arson attack on Magunas Supermarket on July 7, 2025,”
read part of the official police report.
According to the authorities, the suspects, whose identities remain undisclosed, were clearly captured on CCTV. They were seen torching the supermarket and stealing from nearby businesses, including Seven Eleven Lounge and Selelite Supermarket.
Motorbike Recovered, Investigations Ongoing
As part of the investigation, police recovered a dark green motorcycle, registration number KMGN 839F, believed to have been used during the attacks.
“The motorcycle is being held as evidence. It’s a key lead in understanding the movements of the suspects on that fateful day,”
said a police officer close to the probe.
The suspects are now in custody and will soon be presented in court. Investigators are still pursuing other perpetrators captured in footage and identified by witnesses.
“We are not stopping here. More arrests are expected. Anyone who participated in the chaos will face justice,”
vowed the Meru County police boss.
Saba Saba Chaos: Makutano Town Turned Warzone
The July 7 Saba Saba demonstrations brought major towns to a standstill. However, the Makutano area in Meru witnessed the worst violence. Dozens of masked youth stormed the area, looting shops and setting buildings ablaze.
Firefighters from Meru County rushed to the scene to extinguish the flames engulfing Magunas Supermarket. But their truck ran out of water.
“As soon as the truck stalled, protesters turned on it. They pelted it with stones, forcing our team to flee,”
revealed a county emergency official.
Even humanitarian efforts were not spared. A Kenya Red Cross vehicle was vandalised as it tried to assist the injured.
“We were there to help. But sadly, our vehicle was damaged, and our volunteers had to retreat,”
said a Kenya Red Cross representative.
Similar Incidents Rock Other Counties
Although the Magunas Supermarket incident was the most extreme, other counties also saw violence. In Kirinyaga, protesters shattered the windows of Nice Supermarket, leaving the owners counting huge losses.
Police Promise Crackdown on All Criminal Elements
Law enforcement agencies have promised to restore order. They have assured businesses and the public that no criminal will go unpunished.
“We understand the pain of the victims. These are not peaceful protests. This is crime, and we’re treating it as such,”
stated the Deputy Inspector General of Police.
The public has been encouraged to provide any additional footage or information that may help in identifying more suspects.
ALSO READ: IEBC Slams ‘Rigging’ Talk, Warns Politicians Over Reckless 2027 Election Claims
Police Nab Suspects Behind Magunas Supermarket Arson and Looting During Saba Saba Chaos
