11 suspects linked to torching of tea farms in Kericho and Bomet counties arrested

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki during a previous address on May 18, 2023. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Eleven suspects linked to the torching of tea farms in Kericho and Bomet Counties have been arrested and are set for arraignment, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has said.

In a statement on Wednesday, May 24, Kindiki said Security and Intelligence teams from the two counties have also narrowed on key suspects including political leaders and businessmen, who are still at large.

The Cabinet Secretary says the politicians and businessmen have been inciting members of the public to engage in acts of violence, looting, and destruction of property.

"These political and business leaders will be required to record statements before the respective County Security teams in the coming days. Anyone found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. No one will be spared," said Kindiki.

Firm action will be taken against the perpetrators to avert a repeat of conflicts witnessed in the area.

"The Government encourages and offers to facilitate a peaceful resolution of any dispute between tea farm owners, workers, and the respective County governments in an environment of law, order, and tranquillity," he added.

There has been unrest in Kericho and Bomet Counties after some residents torched tea plucking machines and trucks of multinational tea companies.

The protestors said the introduction of the machines has rendered them jobless and efforts to seek redress have been futile.