A middle-aged man has shocked Nairobians and Kenyans after being caught with parts of the vandalised Dedan Kimathi statue.
Speaking to the press, Nairobi County Government Protocol Officer Rodriques Lunalo on Sunday, October 12, 2025, said that the suspect was found carrying a suspicious sack near Kimathi Street in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
According to Lunalo, officers from the county government were on a routine patrol when they noticed the man behaving suspiciously.
Vandalising Dedan Kimathi statue
His actions and the size of the sack he was carrying immediately caught their attention, prompting them to approach him for questioning.
“Tukaona ya kwamba jamaa amebeba ngunia ambayo ni kubwa sana. Na, tukawa na hamu ya kutaka kujua ni kipi kilicho ndani ya gunia ile. Tulipo mvuata, tulipata kingunia kilikua na sanamu mojawapi ni sanamu ya ukumbusho ya Dedan Kimathi. Tulipo muuliza ametoa wapi sanamu ile akaanza kusema ya kwamba aliipata ikiwa chini,” Rodriques Lunalo said.
“Kuna kikosi ambacho kiliformiwa na naibu inspector wa polisi kinaitwa anti-vandalism. Tulimuitania na sasa hivi ako Central Police Station.”
The county official explained that the vandalism incident had caused public outrage, as Dedan Kimathi’s statue is considered a national symbol of Kenya’s struggle for independence.
The statue, located along Kimathi Street, has for years stood as a tribute to the Mau Mau hero who fought against British colonial rule.
Arraignment
Lunalo confirmed that the man of interest is now in custody at the Central Police Station, awaiting interrogation and further investigation.
He added that a special unit known as the anti-vandalism squad has been tasked with tracking down anyone linked to similar acts targeting public monuments and city installations.
Residents in the area have expressed disappointment over the act, calling for increased security around national monuments and heritage sites.
Many urged city authorities to install surveillance cameras and improve night patrols to deter vandals.
The Nairobi County Government has since assured the public that repairs on the Dedan Kimathi statue will begin soon.
Officials have also reiterated their commitment to preserving cultural and historical landmarks that honour Kenya’s heroes and heritage.
