A machete-wielding man who shocked the public after boldly confronting police during Monday’s protests in London Estate, Nakuru West, has been arrested.
The man, identified as Hassan Mtimkavu alias Paul Ositi, is a Ugandan national who had gone into hiding following the incident that was caught on camera and widely circulated online. He was nabbed by authorities on Thursday in the Hilton area of the London neighborhood.
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Nakuru West Sub-County Police Commander Stephen Kirui confirmed the arrest on Friday morning, telling The Standard that the suspect is now in custody and set to face multiple charges.
“I arrested the suspect in the Hilton area of London Estate and we identified him as Hassan Mtimkavu alias Paul Ositi, a Ugandan national,” said Kirui.
The dramatic protests erupted after the fatal shooting of 23-year-old Daniel Nderitu, who was gunned down by police on Monday during a confrontation that followed the arrest of three suspected drug dealers in the area. The incident sparked outrage, with youth taking to the streets to demand justice.
In the viral footage, Mtimkavu is seen fearlessly charging at a police officer with a machete, while the officer, armed with a teargas launcher, attempts to keep him at bay.
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Following his arrest, Mtimkavu allegedly faked illness to avoid detention, but police still took him to Nakuru Level Five Hospital for examination and treatment.
“In our observation, he faked being sick, but we took him to Nakuru Level Five Hospital, where he was admitted and placed under our watch,” Kirui stated.
He has since been discharged and is now being processed to appear in court.
“He shall be taken to court today, Friday, or on Monday once the process is complete. One of the offenses he will face is being in Kenya illegally,” Kirui confirmed.
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Police also indicated that Mtimkavu would be charged with incitement, robbery, stealing, and breaking into premises.
“His actions were an incitement to the other people who then engaged in robbing civilians, shops, and breaking into commercial and residential establishments within the area,” the police boss added.
During the protests, parts of the Nakuru-Marigat road were barricaded, with some demonstrators reportedly extorting money from pedestrians and motorists seeking passage.
The arrest comes as security agencies intensify efforts to restore order in the restive estate, which has witnessed a spike in crime amid the unrest.
