Nairobi (Lamaane.net) - Kibera Magistrate Court in Nairobi on Monday, June 15, ordered detention of George Omondi Otieno, Effenburg Wanyama Khisa, and Melvin Alumasa Bwani for ten working days at Kibra Police Station over investigations into the June 12, 2026 invasion of All Saints' Cathedral in Kilimani, Nairobi, which authorities allege involved coordinated criminal activity, disruption of a public gathering, and extensive property damage during a scheduled meeting.
Investigators told the court that the suspects are being pursued under the Prevention of Organized Crimes Act and conspiracy provisions of the Penal Code. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is analyzing CCTV footage and digital evidence to establish the sequence of events and identify additional individuals allegedly involved in the coordinated operation. A senior investigating officer told the court: "We require continued detention to complete forensic analysis and to identify additional individuals involved in the planning and execution of this incident.”
Defense counsel opposed the application, arguing that continued detention violates the principle of presumption of innocence. The lawyer stated: "The prosecution has not demonstrated sufficient grounds to justify extended custody. Our clients are entitled to due process while investigations continue.”
Inside the Kibera Law Courts, security was visibly reinforced, with officers positioned at key entry points as members of the public and relatives gathered outside the compound awaiting proceedings. The suspects appeared composed during the hearing, occasionally consulting with their legal representatives as the ruling was delivered.
The case stems from a June 12 incident in which an estimated 200 boda boda riders allegedly stormed All Saints’ Cathedral during a meeting, causing panic, disrupting proceedings, and damaging property. Police responding to the scene reportedly fired warning shots into the air after being overwhelmed by the crowd as order broke down.
A Nairobi-based security analyst told Lamaane News Network that the case highlights emerging concerns over the mobilization of loosely organized groups in urban disruptions, noting that "digital coordination and informal networks are increasingly challenging for law enforcement to track in real time.” Authorities also link the suspects to an alleged group identified as "Chini ya Mnazi,” which investigators say is under active profiling.
Investigators confirmed that a motorcycle and several mobile phones recovered during arrests are undergoing forensic examination to determine communication patterns and potential links to additional suspects. The matter is scheduled for mention after the expiry of the detention period, as police finalize witness statements and digital forensic reports for further court directions.
