Police Probe Alleged Gun Incident Involving MP Babu Owino and MCA Robert Alai at Nairobi Restaurant
Police in Nairobi have launched investigations into a dramatic confrontation involving Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Kileleshwa ward MCA Robert Alai, after claims that a firearm was drawn during a heated encounter at a popular Kilimani restaurant on Saturday afternoon.
The incident, which has sparked political and public debate, occurred shortly before 4pm and is now the subject of an active police inquiry, with officers reviewing CCTV footage and recording statements from witnesses present at the establishment.
Confirming the probe, Kilimani Sub-County Police Commander Patricia Yegon said both leaders had already recorded statements, with further interviews expected.
“Based on the analysis of the evidence – reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing all those present – we expect to determine who actually committed an offence,” Ms Yegon said.
“Irrespective of status, necessary action will be taken.”
Owino alleges assault with firearm
In a statement issued after the incident, Mr Owino accused Mr Alai of assaulting him with a firearm, describing the confrontation as a direct threat to his life.
According to the MP, he had earlier attended a private meeting with a senior clergyman and had released his security detail for the Christmas holidays, leaving him unaccompanied at the time.
Mr Owino said he briefly stopped at the restaurant on his way home and approached a nearby table to greet acquaintances, among them Mr Alai. What began as a casual interaction, he claimed, quickly escalated after the MCA accused him of orchestrating online attacks against Mr Alai’s wife.
“I do not know his wife, and I do not involve family members in politics,” Mr Owino said, dismissing the allegation as unprovoked.
He alleged that the MCA then became physically aggressive.
“He pushed me, drew a pistol, and struck me on the chest and jaw with it, all in full view of patrons,” Mr Owino claimed.
The MP said a third party intervened, allowing him to briefly sit down in an attempt to calm the situation. However, he further alleged that moments later Mr Alai poured a glass of water over his face, prompting him to immediately leave the premises and report the matter at Kilimani Police Station.
Alai denies claims
Mr Alai has strongly rejected the allegations, dismissing Mr Owino’s account as false. Speaking to Nation, the MCA confirmed that he had also reported the matter to police and said he would present his version of events “at the right time.”
The MCA accused the MP of spreading misinformation and insisted the truth would emerge once investigations are concluded.
Political tension backdrop
Mr Owino framed the incident as part of a wider pattern of political intimidation, referencing a previous episode in Siaya, during the burial of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, where he alleged goons had been mobilised against him.
Police have since urged patience as investigations continue, stressing that conclusions will be drawn strictly from evidence.
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Police Probe Alleged Gun Incident Involving MP Babu Owino and MCA Robert Alai at Nairobi Restaurant