Third member of 'FBI movement' arrested in Meru

Former police officer Hiram Kimathi has been arrested by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over alleged links to the controversial “Fighting Brutality and Impunity” (FBI) movement.

Kimathi was apprehended at around 1 pm on Thursday at his residence in Kinoru village, Meru County.

The arrest followed a prolonged operation, with DCI officers reportedly camping outside his home since mid-morning.

Kimathi is said to have emerged voluntarily, after which he was handcuffed and escorted into a police vehicle before being driven away to an undisclosed location.

“Kimathi was apprehended in Kinoru village, Meru County, following an intelligence-led operation. He is currently undergoing processing pending his arraignment," said DCI in a statement.

Authorities suspect Kimathi is one of the key figures behind the formation of the Fighting Brutality and Impunity movement, which is said to include former law enforcement and military officers. His arrest brings the number of detained FBI members to three.

Earlier this week, former Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer Patrick Nyambaka Osoi and Jackson Kuria Kihara, alias Cop Shakur, were also arrested and charged under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2012.

According to DCI, the two were found in possession of a firearm and a red beret branded with the FBI insignia.

Kimathi has previously gained attention for openly criticising police excesses and speaking out against the government's shoot-to-kill directive. His lawyer, Evans Mutegi, has expressed concern about his client’s whereabouts, alleging that Kimathi was moved from the initial station and that access by the legal team has been restricted.

The FBI movement has gained notoriety in recent weeks for its vocal opposition to police brutality. However, law enforcement agencies view it as a potentially unlawful organisation and are continuing investigations into its operations and membership.