President William Ruto on Wednesday attended the ongoing Piny Luo Festival in Migori County, barely hours after a security scare involving the discovery of explosive devices along a route he was scheduled to use.
The Head of State’s visit came a day after police recovered explosives planted under a bridge in Nyatike Sub-county, an area within the president’s planned itinerary.
According to security officials, the devices were discovered on Tuesday, December 16, prompting an immediate multi-agency response.
Despite the incident, President Ruto proceeded with his Migori tour under heightened security.
He kicked off his engagements by attending swimming and boat racing competitions at Senye Beach in Muhuru Ward, where residents gathered in large numbers to witness the cultural showcase associated with the Piny Luo Festival.
The president is being hosted by Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko and is also expected to tour Thimlich Ohinga, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, as part of his visit to the lakeside county.
Nyatike police commander Paul Londo confirmed that seven pieces of an explosive device were retrieved from beneath the bridge after officers were alerted.
He said the Anti-Terror Police Unit (ATPU) from Migori examined the devices and successfully disarmed them without any injuries.
“The ATPU unit has confirmed they were explosives, but they have since been disarmed. We are calling on members of the public to provide information that may help identify those involved,” Londo said, adding that security agencies remain on high alert.
The latest scare revives memories of a previous security lapse during President Ruto’s visit to Migori in May this year.
During a rally in Kuria West, a shoe was hurled from the crowd, striking the president as he addressed residents on government reforms.
The incident sparked national debate over presidential security and led to the arrest of several youths.
Authorities have since reassured residents and visitors that adequate measures are in place to guarantee safety as the Piny Luo Festival continues.
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