Murkomen Condemns Goons Who Disrupted C-Section at Kitengela Hospital
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has harshly criticized the decision to release suspects on a Ksh50,000 cash bail after they were accused of storming a hospital in Kitengela during the Saba Saba Day protests.
Speaking in Nairobi on Tuesday, July 15, during a national address on the state of security, Murkomen revealed that security agencies had arrested over 1,500 individuals across the country in connection with the violence and chaos that accompanied the demonstrations starting July 7.
Among those taken to court were two suspects linked to the shocking incident at the Kitengela Sub-County Hospital. Murkomen explained that these individuals invaded the operating theatre during a critical caesarean section procedure, frightening patients and healthcare workers.
He said the suspects were granted a cash bail of Ksh50,000, a decision he strongly opposed, calling it too lenient for such a serious offense.
“In a disturbing and unacceptable incident, a group of thugs forcefully entered the operating theatre at Kitengela Hospital, disrupting an emergency C-section.
They caused panic among doctors, nurses, and patients,” Murkomen said. “Two people have been arrested and presented in court. Shockingly, they were granted cash bail of only Ksh50,000.
That is not enough for such a terrible act. Hospitals are supposed to be safe spaces where people seek help at their most vulnerable. Violating that safety is one of the most disgraceful things anyone can do.”
Murkomen went on to say that the police have made over 1,500 arrests linked to the unrest seen during the three waves of protests that have taken place since June 17. The charges vary from serious crimes such as murder, terrorism, and destruction of property to attacking infrastructure and government facilities.
Kitengela was among the worst-affected areas during the protests on Monday, July 7. What started as peaceful demonstrations quickly turned chaotic, with demonstrators clashing with police. Protesters blocked roads, lit fires, and caused widespread destruction. They also reportedly looted several businesses.
However, the most disturbing scene was the invasion of Kitengela Hospital, which was recorded on video and widely circulated online.
The footage sparked nationwide anger and concern, prompting organizations such as the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS) to urge the government to protect healthcare workers and essential services during public protests.
Murkomen also reported that during the recent waves of unrest, 16 police stations were set on fire by protesters. The widespread damage affected both public and private properties.
Of the 1,500 people arrested, many were granted Ksh50,000 bail for offenses considered less serious, including damaging property and attacking public infrastructure. However, Murkomen noted that some cases were more serious and were under active investigation.
“Fifty of those arrested are under investigation by the Serious Crimes Investigations Unit, while seventy-one cases are being handled by the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit. These cases involve crimes related to terrorism and threats to national security,” he said.
Although Murkomen expressed support for the right to peaceful demonstrations, he stressed that both protesters and police must operate within the law. He promised accountability on all sides, including actions taken by law enforcement.
To ensure responsible policing, Murkomen announced that on Friday, July 18, he will issue a new policy directive to the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja.
The directive will provide clear guidelines on how officers should use force and firearms when dealing with demonstrators, ensuring law enforcement remains professional and respects human rights during such operations.
Join Gen Z & Millennials Revolution New WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
