Former comedian-turned-activist Eric Omondi has been arrested at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport over his actions during the fuel protests.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations confirmed the comedian’s arrest by releasing a statement online.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirms the arrest of Erick Omondi today, 5th June 2026, at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA),” the statement from DCI read. “The arrest follows ongoing investigations in which several other suspects linked to the same incidents were previously arrested and subsequently arraigned in court on 18th May 2026.”
In their statement, DCI said he had been arrested following credible intelligence gathering.
“Following credible intelligence, detectives from DCI Central, working jointly with CRIB Nairobi Region, arrested the suspect in connection with offences committed under the guise of the recent fuel-related protests in Nairobi. He is currently recording his statement at the Nairobi Region DCI Headquarters as he is being processed for arraignment.”
In May, Eric Omondi offloaded empty yellow jerricans onto the streets of Nairobi while yelling, “Punguza Mafuta.”
The protest was meant to highlight the rising cost of living following recent fuel price increases announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra).
However, the DCI cautioned Kenyans against breaking the law while demonstrating.
“The DCI reminds the public that, while the Constitution guarantees the right to assemble, picket, and demonstrate peacefully, these rights must be exercised responsibly and within the confines of the law,” the statement continued. “Any criminal acts committed under the guise of protests, demonstrations, or civic action will be investigated and dealt with firmly in accordance with the law.”
Following Omondi’s arrest, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino called the charges against Omondi “frivolous.”
“We are with @ericomondi at Nairobi Area Regional Police Headquarters. Eric was arrested today at JKIA at 12.15PM,” Babu said. “The charges pressed against him are frivolous, fickle, limping and vexatious. The DCI officers have refused to admit him to bail. Let’s meet in Court on Monday and come prepared.”
