Police want Sonko punished for beating up officer during his arrest

Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko arrives at EACC centre after the DPP ordered for his arrest. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]

Nairobi Governro Mike Sonko woes have pile up after police say they will prefer assault and destruction of property charges against him after allegedly becoming violent during his arrest.

 In a statement signed by National Police Service director of corporate communication Charles Owino, police have accused Sonko of assaulting a senior police officer and destroying media equipment during his dramatic arrest.

“Consequent to these acts of lawlessness against lawful police action, the police will prefer assault and other related charges against the governor,” read the statement.

“After an order by Director of Public Prosecutions to arrest Governor Sonko and other over graft and abuse of office, police caught up with Sonko in Voi where he became unruly, abusive and violent in an attempt to obstruct police from executing their duty.”

According to police reports, Sonko assaulted and injured a senior officer and damaged a media equipment during the arrest.

Police also warned supporters of Governor Sonko against causing unrest in the city over his arrest, saying they will deal with any unruly behavior.

The statement indicated that any planned picketing or demonstration by the general public must be done within the confines of the law.

Police are aware of a group of individuals mobilisng to cause civil unrest, let any demonstration be done in strict adherence of the law,” read the statement.

Sonko and a host of county officials face prosecution over corruption related cases.

The governor was arrested by detectives in Voi while escaping officers.