Gachagua ally arrested by DCI in Malindi over June 25 protests

Democracy for Citizen Party ICT Secretary Furaha Chengo, alias Kalama Wehu, has been arrested for allegedly taking part in the June 25 violent protest in Malindi.

Malindi Sub-County Police Boss Moses Kiprono said Chengo was arrested on Sunday night at his home in Malindi by Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers.

The suspect, who is an ally of former Deputy President and DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua, was initially booked at Malindi Police Station before being transferred to Kilifi Police Station.

Kiprono’s boss said Chengo planned, mobilised, and organised the violent protest that led to the demolition of buildings during the June 25 protests in the tourist town of Malindi.

“Chengo was the ringleader. He participated in a riot and the demolition of buildings on June 25. They destroyed Alinoor Plaza, which houses NSSF offices, among other entities,” he said.

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Chengo is also accused of inciting the public to violence through his social media platforms to stop the impeachment of Kilifi County Speaker Teddy Mwambire.

Kiprono said Chengo will be presented in court on Tuesday. The police chief said that fourteen other suspects were also arrested for property vandalism during the protests. 

Chengo is seeking the vacant Magarini parliamentary seat following the Supreme Court’s decision to nullify the election of MP Harrison Kombe.

His arrest has sparked debate, with a majority of netizens terming it a political witch-hunt targeting allies of the former DP.

Jacob Kea, an online user, claimed on social media that the arrests were politically motivated and intended to intimidate him for his party affiliation.