One police officer was killed and eight others injured during violence linked to the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay and an operation along the Kisumu-Kericho Road, the National Police Service says.
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem confirmed that a Ugandan woman died at Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital after being run over by a vehicle amid the chaos, bringing the death toll to two.
In a statement issued on August 17, 2026, the NPS said security deployment for the Homa Bay rally was coordinated by the Nyanza Regional Police Commander based on the nature and anticipated requirements of the event.
The Service said several criminal incidents were recorded during the rally, including an attack on journalists, damage to five police vehicles deployed for public order operations, and damage to several civilian vehicles.
“Regrettably, several criminal incidents were recorded, including an attack on journalists performing their lawful duties, damage to five police vehicles deployed for public order maintenance, and damage to several civilian motor vehicles,” the NPS said.
The police added that one police vehicle lost control during the Homa Bay incidents, resulting in the death of its driver and injuries to five other officers.
The NPS also reported that three officers were injured on August 15 while arresting 15 suspected gang members along the Kisumu-Kericho Road.
This brings the total number of injured officers in the two incidents to eight, in addition to the officer who died in Homa Bay.
The Service expressed condolences to the family and friends of the deceased officer and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
Police have arrested 37 suspected gang members in connection with the violence and say the suspects were found with various crude weapons.
“A total of 37 suspected gang members have been arrested and were found in possession of various crude weapons, including machetes, ropes, metal rods, knives, rungus, batons and torches,” the statement added.
The NPS says it is pursuing Oliver Jaoko, alias “Olivetti,” who remains at large, and has directed him to surrender to the nearest police station to assist with investigations.
Police are also pursuing other individuals suspected of taking part in the violence, including alleged organisers, facilitators and sponsors.
The Service has warned criminal groups and political actors against using political activities to promote violence, intimidate members of the public, attack police officers or destroy property.
NPS says anyone found to have recruited, financed, mobilised, armed or otherwise facilitated criminal elements will be pursued and brought to justice.
It has also reminded political actors planning rallies that public gatherings must be conducted between 6 am and 6 pm, with the required notification given to police to allow adequate security planning.
The Service says it remains committed to maintaining law and order while protecting the right of citizens to peaceful assembly.