Editor's Review

ODM supporters had gathered at Jacaranda Grounds for Raila Odinga's commemoration event when the suspects infiltrated it.

Police in Nairobi have arrested five suspects accused of taking advantage of an ODM rally at Jacaranda Grounds to rob members of the public on Saturday, October 31. 

Officers from Starehe Sub-County carried out the operation on Saturday evening, October 31, 2026. A quick search of the suspects turned up eight mobile phones, which police suspect were stolen from people attending the rally.

The five are in police custody awaiting arraignment. The recovered handsets have been secured as exhibits.

In a statement on Sunday, November 1, the National Police Service (NPS) said the arrests were part of a wider crackdown on criminal groups that target crowds at public events.

"Political rallies must never be used as a platform for criminal gangs to target, harass or steal from members of the public. Our officers from Starehe Sub-County acted swiftly, and these arrests send a clear message that those who prey on rally attendees will be pursued," the NPS said. 

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The service also urged Kenyans to stay alert at large gatherings and to report suspicious activity quickly.

Five suspects arrested by Starehe police over alleged theft at the ODM Jacaranda rally.

"We remain fully committed to maintaining law and order during all lawful public gatherings," the NPS added. "We strongly urge members of the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police post or station, or through our toll-free numbers, 999 or 911."

The rally was the climax of ODM's month-long commemoration of its founding leader, the late Raila Odinga, who died aged 80 on October 15, 2025.

The party dedicated the whole of October to marking one year since his death, and supporters took part in several activities, including candle lighting and anniversary celebrations at Migwena Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County, on October 15.

The highlight of the month was the commissioning of the government-sponsored Raila Odinga Mausoleum at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi by President William Ruto on October 7.

The October 31 gathering, dubbed "Mwezi wa Baba Grand Finale", closed the series of events.

Senior ODM leaders were present at Jacaranda Grounds, including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who is also the party's national chairperson.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and Kisii Governor Simba Arati, both deputy party leaders, attended too.

Others at the rally included National Treasury CS John Mbadi, Mining CS Hassan Joho, Raila Odinga Junior, and Suna East MP Junet Mohamed.