Homa Bay town was thrown into chaos on Friday, October 9, 2026, as traders shut their shops and matatu operators pulled their vehicles off the roads following protests over the arrest of Kassim Abdi Sebo, a local figure accused of links to political violence.
Sebo was apprehended on Thursday night, October 8, at Homa Bay Bus Stage in an operation involving police officers and detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).According to police records, Sebo was wanted over allegations of assault causing bodily harm. His arrest followed a warrant issued by the Homa Bay Law Courts on August 14, 2026.
Seven other men were arrested during the operation for allegedly interfering with police officers as they carried out their duties. Their detention brought the total number of suspects to eight.
The seven men were identified as Achiando Victor Odhiambo, 26; Isaac Masika Muliro, 30; Oyege Moses Geoffrey, 27; Geoffrey Njore, 25; Odhiambo Wesley Arnold, 26; Joseph Kobila, 28; and Alfred Nyagiro Aliwa, 26. They were being held as they awaited court proceedings.
Sebo’s detention triggered demonstrations by youths believed to be his supporters, who took to the streets demanding his release. Some protesters reportedly barricaded roads with stones and set tyres ablaze, heightening tension across the town.The unrest forced business owners to close their premises as matatu operators suspended services over security concerns. The withdrawal of public transport disrupted movement, leaving residents struggling to reach their destinations.
The demonstrations come months after violence disrupted a Linda Mwananchi political rally in Homa Bay. The incident reportedly involved armed individuals and raised concerns about the safety of political gatherings in the region.
The Linda Mwananchi movement has been associated with opposition figures, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Siaya Governor James Orengo.
Sebo has been accused of having links to the alleged violence, but the claims have not been determined in court.
His arrest has also renewed questions about whether other individuals suspected of involvement in the clashes will face investigation and prosecution.
With tensions remaining high, residents and traders are waiting for normal business and transport services to resume as authorities continue handling the case.