SIAYA, Kenya — Twelve people have been arrested after a group of youths allegedly attempted to obstruct a convoy carrying First Lady Rachel Ruto and other dignitaries in Siaya town.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, shortly after the conclusion of a women’s economic empowerment event held at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) grounds in Siaya.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the youths attempted to force their way through a secured gate as the convoy headed towards a designated landing and take-off site.
The situation escalated when the group allegedly obstructed the convoy and hurled stones at police officers deployed to secure the entrance.
“Police officers responded swiftly, restoring order and arresting 12 suspects believed to have been involved in the incident,” the DCI said.
The suspects are being held at a police station in Siaya as detectives process them ahead of their expected arraignment in court.
The DCI said investigations were continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether other people participated in the alleged disturbance.
DCI warns against violence
The investigative agency said citizens have a constitutional right to assemble and express themselves peacefully but warned that such rights do not extend to violence, obstruction of lawful operations or attacks on police officers.
“The DCI reiterates that while citizens have the right to assemble and express themselves peacefully, violence, obstruction of lawful operations and attacks on police officers will not be tolerated,” the agency said.
The DCI said anyone found to have participated in violence or disorder would be held accountable in accordance with the law.
It also urged members of the public with information about the incident or other criminal activity to report anonymously through its toll-free line 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.
The Siaya incident comes months after a separate security breach involving President William Ruto during a public event in Ganze, Kilifi County, on May 24.
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During that incident, a man breached security arrangements and reached Ruto while he was addressing the public at a thanksgiving event. The National Police Service described the incident as a serious security breach and a matter of grave national concern.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja subsequently ordered immediate changes to the security detail responsible for protecting the President and established a special investigations team to examine how the breach occurred.
The changes included a reshuffle within the Presidential Escort Unit, with William Sawe replacing Noah Kirwa Maiyo as commandant.
Unlike the Kilifi incident, however, the DCI has not described the Siaya episode as a breach of the First Lady’s personal security. Its account centres on an alleged attempt by youths to obstruct the convoy and an ensuing confrontation with police officers.
The 12 suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
