Lead image for Ruto to police: Do not just arrest the goons, get their leaders and financiers too.
President William Ruto on Friday ordered security agencies to pursue those who recruit, organise and finance youths to perpetrate political violence, saying such individuals must be held accountable for their actions.
He directed the National Police Service to take firm action against anyone who finances, organises, and offers transport to gangs destined to cause chaos in political rallies.
A screengrab of a video shows hooded men brandishing guns and hurling tear gas canisters at residents and journalists during the Ol Kalou by-elections on July 16, 2026.
He told the police not only to concentrate on youths found carrying weapons during political activities, but also to identify those who facilitate them.
“Do not arrest only the young people holding a weapon while allowing the person who organized and paid them to escape responsibility,” Dr Ruto said.
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The President spoke during the passing-out ceremony of 10,000 police recruits at Kiganjo Training Police College.
He was accompanied by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, his deputy Eliud Lagat, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and his Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omolo among other senior security officers.