The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has temporarily suspended operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) following a major security breach during the arrival of the remains of the late former Prime Minister, Raila Amolo Odinga.
In a statement released on Thursday, October 16, 2025, KCAA announced that an overwhelming crowd of mourners gained access to restricted airport areas as they attempted to pay their last respects to the late opposition leader.
The unexpected surge of people prompted aviation authorities and security agencies to initiate an immediate lockdown of the facility to restore order and ensure the safety of passengers, staff, and the general public.
“Operations at JKIA have been temporarily suspended due to an ongoing security situation following the arrival of the remains of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga.”
“A large number of mourners gained access to restricted areas, prompting a precautionary closure to allow security teams to restore order and ensure safety.”
KCAA urged travellers and members of the public to remain calm and avoid the airport vicinity until further notice, adding that a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) had been issued to all relevant aviation stakeholders.
The authority assured the public that normal operations would resume once the situation is fully contained and the airport declared secure. an exercise expected to take approximately two hours.
“KCAA regrets any inconvenience and appreciates the public’s understanding and cooperation,” KCAA said.
The closure comes amid heightened national emotion as thousands of Kenyans thronged JKIA to witness the return of Raila Odinga’s body from India, where he passed away while receiving treatment.
The breach
Security personnel had earlier set up tight security measures around the airport, but the sheer number of mourners overwhelmed the barriers, forcing authorities to abandon the planned military reception protocols.
According to initial arrangements, the casket carrying Raila’s body, draped in the national flag, was to be placed on a wheeled military carrier for a formal state reception.
President William Ruto was scheduled to officially receive it, accompanied by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, top government officials, and senior leaders of the ODM party.
However, moments after the aircraft carrying Raila’s body landed at 9:33 am, the situation quickly became uncontrollable as thousands of supporters, chanting his name, broke through the security cordons and surged onto the tarmac.
The military was forced to halt the original plan and instead escorted Raila’s body to Lee Funeral Home, albeit sandwiched between mammoth crowds.
