A total of 37 individuals are now facing terrorism-related charges following violent incidents that rocked parts of Kiambu and Machakos counties on June 25, 2025.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has filed charges against the group at the Kahawa Law Courts, accusing them of committing acts of terrorism and destruction of government property in Kikuyu and Matuu towns.
According to a statement from the DPP’s office, 25 of the suspects are believed to have participated in coordinated attacks in Kikuyu between noon and 11 PM. The violence reportedly targeted several public offices, including the Kikuyu Law Courts, Chief’s Office, Registrar of Persons, Sub-County Education Office, Police Post, and the Deputy County Commissioner’s Office, among others. The damage, described as extensive, was classified as a terrorist act under the law.
Alongside the terrorism charges, the suspects are also facing counts of arson, with an alternative charge of malicious damage to property.
Two of those arraigned Peter Kinyanjui Wanjiru, also known as Kawanjiru, and Serah Wanjiku Thiga were included in the same case file. The DPP clarified that although the two had earlier been granted bail in Ruiru, they had not been officially charged at the time. A custodial application had been made, and after reviewing the investigation file, the decision was taken to formally charge them.
Ten other suspects from Matuu, Machakos County, have also been charged with committing a terrorist act at Matuu Police Station on the same day. The incident allegedly led to the destruction of police vehicles and assault of officers on duty.
The prosecution emphasized that all charges followed a thorough review of investigation files and that the decision to prosecute was made independently. They argued in court that all suspects were lawfully presented, the charge sheets are valid, and the cases are properly before the court.
Addressing concerns raised by defense lawyers who asked the court to block the DPP from pressing terrorism charges, citing political targeting the prosecution was firm in its stance. The DPP stated the charges were not aimed at peaceful demonstrators but specifically at individuals who are believed to have taken part in organized violence and destruction.
Magistrate Gideon Kiaga ordered that the suspects remain in custody until July 10, when the court will issue a ruling on the defense’s application challenging the terrorism charges.
