DCI Confirms Arrest of Erick Omondi at JKIA Over Fuel Protest Activities

DCI Confirms Arrest of Erick Omondi at JKIA Over Fuel Protest Activities

Popular comedian and activist Erick Omondi was arrested on Friday at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirming that the arrest is linked to ongoing investigations into activities surrounding recent fuel price protests in Nairobi.

The confirmation came hours after widespread speculation emerged online, with supporters and members of the public expressing concern over Omondi’s whereabouts following claims that he had been taken away by unidentified individuals.

In a statement issued on June 5, the DCI said detectives from DCI Central, working jointly with officers from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) Nairobi Region, arrested the activist following intelligence reports connecting him to alleged criminal offences committed during demonstrations against rising fuel prices.

“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirms the arrest of Erick Omondi today, 5th June 2026, at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA),” the agency said.

According to investigators, Omondi was taken to the Nairobi Region DCI Headquarters, where he was being processed and recording a statement ahead of his planned arraignment in court.

“Following credible intelligence, detectives from DCI Central, working jointly with CRIB Nairobi Region, arrested the suspect in connection with offences committed under the guise of the recent fuel-related protests in Nairobi. He is currently recording his statement at the Nairobi Region DCI Headquarters as he is being processed for arraignment,” the statement added.

The arrest has drawn significant public attention given Omondi’s prominent role in civic activism and his frequent involvement in campaigns highlighting economic challenges facing ordinary Kenyans.

Earlier in the day, Omondi sparked concern after posting a message on his social media platforms claiming he had been arrested by a group of men who were not in uniform.

“Just been arrested by a group of 8 non-uniformed men. I have no idea where we are headed!!!” he wrote.

The message quickly spread across social media, prompting calls from supporters, human rights activists, and political commentators demanding clarification from security agencies regarding his whereabouts and safety.

The DCI’s statement later sought to address those concerns by confirming that the activist was in lawful police custody and that the arrest formed part of an ongoing criminal investigation.

Authorities said the probe relates to incidents that occurred during demonstrations held in Nairobi in recent weeks following public outrage over increased fuel prices and the rising cost of living.

While investigators did not immediately disclose the exact offences Omondi is accused of committing, they maintained that evidence gathered during investigations had linked him to alleged criminal activities that occurred during the protests.

The agency also revealed that several other suspects connected to the same case had previously been arrested and presented before court on May 18, 2026, indicating that the investigations have been ongoing for several weeks.

The fuel-related demonstrations attracted large crowds in parts of Nairobi and generated national debate over economic policies, taxation, and the increasing burden on households facing higher transport and commodity costs.

Despite confirming the arrest, the DCI emphasized that it respects constitutional freedoms, including the right of citizens to assemble and demonstrate peacefully.

However, the agency cautioned that criminal conduct occurring during protests would not be tolerated and would be investigated regardless of an individual’s public profile.

“Any criminal acts committed under the guise of protests, demonstrations, or civic action will be investigated and dealt with firmly in accordance with the law,” the agency stated.

As investigations continue, attention is expected to shift to the courts, where prosecutors are likely to outline the allegations against the comedian. Supporters of Omondi have meanwhile called for transparency in the legal process, while authorities insist that the matter will be handled strictly within the framework of the law.

The case is expected to reignite discussions about the balance between constitutional freedoms, public demonstrations, and law enforcement in Kenya’s evolving democratic landscape.

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DCI Confirms Arrest of Erick Omondi at JKIA Over Fuel Protest Activities