Two Killed in Busia Clashes After Police Arrest Suspect for Vandalism

Two people died in Busia County, Kenya, during confrontations between police and a crowd that gathered after the arrest of a suspect on May 20, 2026. Busia County Police Commander Ahmed Abdilleh said the unrest began when officers detained Edwin Omondi, who was under investigation for damaging a police vehicle.

Abdilleh stated that nearly 200 youths arrived at the police station armed with metal bars and other weapons. He said some individuals attempted to loot businesses including Busia Complex Trading Centre, Taxi Park Trading Centre, and Khetias Supermarket, and that the group also damaged buildings at the Kenya Medical Training College and county government offices.

Abdilleh said officers repelled the crowd and prevented further damage. Two people were shot during the confrontation and later died from their wounds. He expressed regret over the deaths and urged youths to avoid similar actions. One of the deceased was identified as Frederick Odiwuor, known locally as "Papa," who worked for Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo.

Omanyo said the unrest was not connected to fuel price protests and stated that Odiwuor was shot while returning home after taking his pregnant wife to the hospital.

Omtatah called for an immediate investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, and the Interior Ministry.