NAKURU, Kenya — Police in Nakuru have confirmed the arrest of a Ugandan national captured on video brandishing a machete and charging at anti-riot officers during recent violent protests in London Estate. The individual has been identified by authorities as Hassan Mtimkavu, also known as Paul Ositi.
Nakuru Town West Sub-County Police Commander Stephen Kirui stated that Mtimkavu was apprehended on Tuesday after being flushed out of a hideout. However, shortly after his arrest, he allegedly feigned illness, prompting officers to transport him to the Nakuru County Teaching and Referral Hospital.
“He feigned illness upon arrest, and he is admitted at the level four hospital under police watch,” Commander Kirui confirmed. He added that the suspect is expected to face multiple charges, including illegal presence in Kenya, robbery, stealing, incitement, and breaking and entering.
Mtimkavu was reportedly part of a group of rioters protesting the recent death of Daniel Nderitu, a London Estate resident.
The fatal shooting of Nderitu, which occurred during a police operation targeting a suspected drug dealer, has ignited outrage and triggered widespread protests in Nakuru.
Authorities claim that officers were confronted by residents during the pursuit, leading to a confrontation in which the 35-year-old man was shot and killed.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with police continuing their search for other individuals involved in the violent unrest.
On Friday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen issued a stern warning to the public against provoking police officers during demonstrations, directly referencing the Nakuru incident.
“We will not waiver, it does not matter whatever people say. Our duty in the security sector is to keep people safe and that we promise the people of Kenya,” Murkomen asserted.
He further added: “As we hold the police accountable, we will also hold civilians who are using their civilian authority accountable.”
In response to the growing public outcry surrounding Nderitu’s death, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched its own probe into the circumstances of the incident.
