Comedian and activist Eric Omondi has been arrested by detectives in connection with alleged criminal activities linked to recent demonstrations over fuel prices.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Omondi was apprehended on Friday at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and taken to the Nairobi Regional DCI offices for questioning and processing ahead of his planned court appearance.
Investigators say the arrest stems from ongoing inquiries into incidents that occurred during fuel-related protests held in Nairobi in recent weeks. Authorities allege that a number of offences were committed during the demonstrations and that Omondi is among individuals being investigated in connection with the events.
The arrest comes weeks after several other suspects linked to the same investigations were charged in court following their arrest in May.
While the DCI did not immediately disclose the specific charges expected to be preferred against the comedian, detectives indicated that investigations had been ongoing before his arrest.
In a statement, the investigative agency maintained that constitutional rights such as peaceful assembly, picketing and demonstrations must be exercised within the limits of the law.
The agency further warned that individuals found to have engaged in criminal conduct during protests would face legal action regardless of their status or public profile.
Omondi has in recent years emerged as one of the country’s most visible activist figures, frequently organising demonstrations and public campaigns on issues affecting ordinary Kenyans, including the cost of living, taxation and unemployment.
By Friday evening, detectives were finalising processing procedures as preparations for his arraignment got underway.
