The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested 12 suspects following an incident in which a group of youths allegedly attempted to disrupt First Lady Rachel Ruto’s convoy in Siaya town.
The incident happened on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, shortly after a women’s economic empowerment function held at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) grounds in Siaya.
According to the DCI, the trouble started when a group of youths allegedly attempted to force their way through a secured gate as the convoy of dignitaries headed towards a designated landing and take-off site.
The situation quickly became tense after the youths allegedly started throwing stones at police officers deployed to secure the entrance.
Officers at the scene moved in to contain the situation and restore order before the incident could escalate further.
By the time calm was restored, 12 people believed to have been involved in the disturbance had been arrested.
The suspects are being held at a police station in Siaya as detectives process the case. They are expected to be taken to court as investigations continue.
The DCI said detectives are also working to establish whether other people took part in the incident. Those found to have been involved could also face arrest and prosecution.
The incident comes at a time when security surrounding senior government officials has continued to attract attention following several security breaches this year.
One of the notable incidents happened on May 24 in Ganze, Kilifi County, when a man carrying a Bible reportedly breached several security cordons and managed to reach President William Ruto before grabbing him.
The incident raised questions about the level of security around the President during public engagements. Following the security lapse, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja ordered changes to the security arrangements around the President.
Noah Kirwa Maiyo, who was serving as commander of the Presidential Security and Escort Unit, was removed from the position as authorities moved to strengthen security protocols.
The latest incident in Siaya is likely to bring renewed attention to the challenges security officers face when protecting senior officials during public events.
While police managed to contain the situation and make arrests, investigations will determine what led to the confrontation and whether more people were involved.
