Police have launched investigations into the Thursday afternoon incident in Kisii, where a peaceful political rally led by Azimio coalition presidential running mate Martha Karua was interrupted by a tear gas canister that exploded at the podium.
In a statement, National Police Service (NPS) said that preliminary investigations have established that the person responsible is a police officer.
The said officer is currently in custody to assist in further investigations into the matter.
“Public shall be appraised of the progress of the investigation and subsequent actions in due time,” part of the statement read.
Reports indicate that the teargas canister exploded moments as the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition presidential running mate was taking to the stage to address thousands of residents who had turned up.
The Narc-Kenya leader was rushed to safety together with Raila Odinga’s wife Ida Odinga who was in attendance.
PHOTO/Courtesy
Thousands of residents who had gathered at the stadium were forced to scamper for safety with some breaking chairs and throwing the meeting into disarray.
FOLLOW-UP STATEMENT ON THE INCIDENT INVOLVING THE DISCHARGE OF A TEARGAS AT A PUBLIC MEETING PRESIDED OVER BY HON MARTHA KARUA IN KISII. pic.twitter.com/75CM6izFuB
— National Police Service-Kenya (@NPSOfficial_KE) June 30, 2022
