- Youth involved in looting businesses and robbing motorists in Mathare and Thika Road.
- Public service vehicle attacked, passengers robbed.
- Incident occurred hours after President Ruto’s visit to Mathare.
- PS Omollo emphasized the need for security forces to act without violating human rights.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has spoken out following the shocking looting incidents that took place in Mathare and along Thika Road on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.
Videos circulating online captured rowdy youth ransacking shops, robbing motorists, and even targeting public service vehicles, leaving many residents in distress. In one viral clip, a group of individuals was seen stopping a matatu and forcefully robbing passengers.
The attacks came just hours after President William Ruto toured Mathare, where he had launched various development projects.
Omollo’s Response on Security Measures
Speaking during a radio interview, PS Omollo acknowledged the responsibility of security officers in handling such incidents while ensuring citizens and property remain protected.
However, he pointed out the delicate balance between enforcing security and respecting human rights when dealing with large, violent groups.
“We have a duty to contain such incidents and protect Kenyans, but while doing so, we must ensure that security measures are implemented in a balanced manner,” Omollo stated.
“This means securing both people and property while ensuring that our response does not violate fundamental human rights,” he added.
At the time of this publication, the National Police Service had not yet issued an official statement regarding the losses suffered by residents and motorists.
President Ruto’s Visit to Mathare
During his tour of Mathare, President Ruto pledged to enhance education infrastructure in the area. Speaking at St. Teresa Girls Secondary School, he promised to construct ten additional classrooms and also officiated the groundbreaking of Mabatini Primary School.
“We are committed to expanding and modernizing schools in marginalized and densely populated regions to ensure equal opportunities for all students,” Ruto affirmed.
