The National Police Service has ordered a manhunt for individuals who participated in an attack that saw Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s chopper pelted with stones.
The police have also indicated that the hunt will be extended to persons suspected to have sponsored the violence meted out on the Azimio la Umoja Presidential flag bearer during his visit to Uasin Gishu County on Friday.
“The Inspector-General of Police has issued firm instructions to the Rift Valley Regional Police Commander to urgently take decisive action against the perpetrators of today’s violence, including all those who will be implicated for planning and organizing the violence.” The National Police Service confirmed
In a statement issued following the incident in Kabenes area of Eldoret, NPS says it had established that a group of ‘organized rowdy youths’ stoned the helicopter and vehicles ferrying the ODM leader and his entourage.
“Acts of violence targeting opponents shall not be tolerated.” NPS
According to NPS, a swift response by police officers on duty at the scene averted what would have been “a spree of destruction and attacks resulting to serious injuries including threat to lives.”
“As a result, peace was breached, lives put in harm’s way and the said helicopter and vehicles in the entourage damaged.” The statement said
The former PM was in Uasin Gishu to attend the burial of renowned farmer and businessman Jackson Kibor who passed on recently. The area is considered Deputy President William Ruto’s political bedrock.
NPS says leaders must exercise tolerance and respect for competitors as the country approaches the August elections.
