NAROK, Kenya — Proceedings at the Narok Law Courts were temporarily disrupted on Tuesday after anti-riot police fired warning shots and tear gas to disperse a crowd that allegedly attempted to forcefully free a businessman and politician facing murder charges.
The suspect, David Matuke Ole Mayone, had just appeared in court over allegations that he murdered a man in Majimoto and later opened fire on police officers responding to the incident.
Tension was evident from early morning as dozens of Mayone’s supporters assembled outside the courthouse carrying placards and demanding his release.
Authorities deployed heavily armed police officers around the court premises amid fears of possible unrest during the proceedings.
Mayone was presented before Principal Magistrate Esther Mwikali Mutuku, where his legal team sought his release on bond pending the completion of investigations.
The defence argued that bond is a constitutional right and maintained that prosecutors had not demonstrated compelling reasons to continue detaining him.
The court, however, declined the application and ordered that the suspect undergo a mental assessment before further proceedings.
Magistrate Mutuku directed that Mayone remain in custody and return to court next Thursday after the assessment is completed.
The ruling appeared to trigger frustration among some of his supporters who had gathered outside the court.
Shortly after the court session ended, tensions escalated as police officers escorted the suspect from the courtroom to the holding cells.
According to witnesses, a group of supporters allegedly attempted to interfere with the transfer and free the suspect from police custody.
The situation quickly descended into chaos, prompting anti-riot officers to intervene.
Police fired warning shots into the air and lobbed tear gas canisters to disperse the crowd and regain control of the situation.
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The confrontation lasted for nearly 20 minutes before the group dispersed, allowing security officers to safely transfer Mayone to Narok Prison.
The incident underscores the security challenges that can accompany high-profile criminal cases, particularly those involving influential political figures.
Authorities have not indicated whether any arrests were made during the confrontation, while investigations into the murder case and the alleged shooting at police officers remain ongoing.
Mayone is expected back in court next week as prosecutors continue with investigations and the court considers the next phase of the proceedings.
