Comedian and activist Eric Omondi remains in police custody following his arrest by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in connection with ongoing investigations into recent anti-fuel price demonstrations.


In a statement, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations confirmed that Omondi was apprehended by detectives drawn from DCI Central and the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) Nairobi Region. Investigators say the arrest is linked to alleged offenses committed during demonstrations protesting fuel price increases announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).


According to the DCI, the investigations form part of a broader probe into incidents that occurred during the protests, with several other suspects already having been arrested and presented before court in relation to the same matter.


Arrest at JKIA


Reports indicate that Omondi was arrested at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport shortly before boarding a flight to Kisumu. Prior to the DCI's confirmation, the comedian posted a brief message on social media alleging that he had been taken by individuals who were not in uniform and that he was unaware of his destination.


Authorities later confirmed that he had been transferred to the Nairobi Regional DCI Headquarters, where detectives recorded his statement as part of the ongoing investigations.


Bail Denied


Sources close to the case indicate that requests for police bond were not granted, resulting in Omondi remaining in custody throughout the weekend pending his court appearance.


The decision has sparked debate among supporters and critics alike, with some viewing the arrest as a legitimate law enforcement action while others argue it raises concerns about the treatment of activists involved in public demonstrations.


Babu Owino Leads Defence Team


Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino, who is representing Omondi, visited him at the DCI headquarters and strongly criticized the arrest.


Owino described the allegations facing the comedian as "frivolous, fickle, limping and vexatious," arguing that investigators were pursuing a weak case. He further claimed that the continued detention over the weekend amounted to a "fishing expedition" targeting Omondi because of his outspoken activism and involvement in public interest campaigns.


DCI Defends Investigation


The DCI has maintained that while Kenyans enjoy constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, demonstration, picketing and petitioning public authorities, individuals who engage in criminal acts during such activities remain subject to investigation and prosecution.


Investigators have emphasized that the probe is focused on determining whether any laws were broken during the demonstrations and that due process will be followed as the matter proceeds through the justice system.


Awaiting Court Appearance


Omondi is expected to be arraigned in court on Monday, June 8, 2026, where prosecutors are expected to outline the specific allegations and seek directions from the court regarding the next phase of the case.


The court proceedings are likely to attract significant public interest given Omondi's profile as one of Kenya's most prominent entertainers and activists, as well as the wider national debate surrounding fuel prices, the cost of living, and the right to protest.


Key Facts


Suspect: Eric Omondi


Arresting Agency: Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI)


Location of Arrest: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)


Investigating Units: DCI Central and CRIB Nairobi Region


Matter Under Investigation: Alleged offenses linked to anti-fuel price demonstrations


Legal Representative: Babu Owino


Current Status: In police custody


Expected Court Appearance: June 8, 2026



Hamasta Media will continue monitoring the case and provide updates as more information emerges from the court proceedings.