MRC leader arrested, two killed in raid

MRC Chairman Omar Mwamnuadzi. (Photo:File/standard)

 

By Cyrus Ombati

At least two people were killed and others wounded in an operation that led to the arrest of the Mombasa Republican Council Chairman, Omar Mwamnuadzi and 38 others.

Mwamnuadzi and other suspects were arrested in Kwale by police who had been tipped off and will be taken to Mombasa where they will be questioned before being arraigned.

Coast PPO Agrey Adoli says Mwamnuadzi had been on the run for the last few weeks when police announced a crackdown on the leaders of the gang.

Reports say there was a gunfight at the home of Mwamnuadzi before he was arrested that led to the killings. The chairman is a former soldier.

Moments after the capture of mwamnuadzi, Kombani Assistant Chief Salim Changu was killed by suspected MRC Mob. Kwale DO Alice Wachira confirmed the killing.

Top government officials led by Security minister Katoo ole Metito and Education’s Mutula Kilonzo are expected at the Coast as part of efforts by the state to stamp its authority in the area.

They will hold a security meeting at The Government School before launching the national examinations that are set to start today.

The arrests happened as police continued to probe political leaders and financiers in efforts to contain the gang’s criminal activities.

Internal security permanent secretary Mr Mutea Iringo said they are investigating politicians and businessmen in Mombasa who are financing the criminal gang with an aim of taking them to court soon.

“If any of them will be found to be financing the gang we will deal with them without favour of fear. We will not allow anyone to continue distabilising the country and in particular coast region,” said Iringo.

The PS assured Coast people the government is determined in ensuring their safety and peace and warned those funding the group of dire action.

Several MRC officials including the group’s Council of Elders’ chairman Hassan Mbwana Mwanguza, Likoni Branch chairman Ali Mwatete, Ukunda Branch secretary Ali Hassan Mwapesa and members Ali Daktari, spokesman Mohammed Mraja and Ali Mwachebe have been arrested and quizzed.

The operation came days after Metito said they have intelligence that MRC plans to disrupt the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) and Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) as part of their efforts to remain relevant.

The group has been warning locals against participating in elections saying Pwani si Kenya (Cost is not in Kenya).