Thirty-six individuals faced charges in a Nanyuki court for their alleged involvement in looting Chieni Supermarket during protests against the Finance Bill held on Tuesday.
Owned by Kieni MP Wanaina Njoroge, Chieni Supermarket was reportedly vandalized, with looters making off with various goods from the premises.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) disclosed on Thursday that the accused were charged under Section 307 of the Penal Code for unlawfully breaking into the supermarket with intent to commit a felony.
According to the ODPP, the accused participated in the looting in Nanyuki Township, Laikipia East Sub-County.
“The prosecution informed the court that the accused, together with others, forcibly and unlawfully gained entry into Chieni Supermarket,” the ODPP stated.
The accused individuals pleaded not guilty and were each granted bail set at Ksh200,000 or alternative cash bail of Ksh100,000.
Earlier reports indicated that residents took action against the supermarket following the MP’s support of the Finance Bill of 2024.
In addition to Nanyuki, the supermarket chain, which also operates in Nyeri, was similarly broken into and looted before being set ablaze.
During the incident, locals were seen taking away items such as maize and wheat flour, cooking oil, and sugar. The premises were also extensively vandalized, with windows broken and internal fixtures damaged.
The MP estimated losses totaling Ksh550 million, comprising movable stock valued at Ksh450 million and equipment like bakery shelves valued at Ksh100 million.
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