Armed Gang Storms Fairways Hotel in Kisumu
A large gang attacked Fairways Hotel in Kisumu during an early morning raid on March 11, 2026. The hotel sits inside the Lake Basin Development Authority Mall.
Approximately 100 individuals reportedly stormed the premises around 5:00 AM. Witnesses say the attackers carried crude weapons during the violent incident.
Consequently, the raid caused panic among workers and nearby residents. Authorities have since launched investigations into the attack.
Hotel Linked to Politician Irungu Nyakera
The hotel belongs to Irungu Nyakera, a former Principal Secretary. Nyakera also serves as the Patron of the Democratic Congress Party.
According to reports, he was present during the attack. Therefore, he quickly responded to the unfolding situation. Nyakera is also a licensed firearm holder under Kenyan law.
Property Vandalized and Staff Assaulted
During the raid, the gang vandalized property inside the hotel compound. They reportedly damaged a motor vehicle parked at the premises. Additionally, attackers assaulted several members of staff.
Reports indicate that a female security guard was tied up. Meanwhile, the suspects also stole electronic gadgets during the chaos. However, the exact value of the destroyed property remains unknown.
Nyakera Fires Warning Shots
As the attack escalated, Nyakera reportedly fired warning shots into the air. The shots aimed to scare the attackers and disperse the crowd. Consequently, the gang fled the scene shortly afterward.
Police later arrived to assess the situation and collect evidence. Authorities continue pursuing leads to identify the suspects.
READ ALSO: Ten Killed in Chabera Road Accident on Kisii-Kisumu Highway
– KDF Deployed to Fast-Track Moi Stadium Upgrade in Kisumu
– Farmers in Kisumu Appeal for Help as Monkeys Destroy Crops
Police Launch Investigations
Officers from the Kenya Police Service have opened investigations into the incident. Nyakera has already reported the attack to law enforcement officials. However, police stated that a formal statement was still under processing.
Regional police commander Evelyn Gisiri confirmed that investigations are ongoing. Authorities aim to determine the exact motive behind the raid.
Political Claims and Rent Dispute
Nyakera has described the attack as politically motivated. He alleged that the attackers chanted anti-Kikuyu slogans during the raid. Therefore, he linked the incident to his political affiliation.
However, officials from the Lake Basin Development Authority disputed this claim. They suggested the conflict relates to a long-standing rent dispute.
According to LBDA representatives, Nyakera allegedly owes KSh 25.9 million in rent. Furthermore, the authority claimed he remains an unlawful occupant of the premises.
Previous Dispute Reported
Nyakera also reported a similar confrontation three weeks earlier. He claimed individuals linked to the landlord locked him out of the premises. Consequently, tensions between the parties appear to have escalated.
Police now hope their investigation will clarify the true cause of the attack. Meanwhile, the incident has raised concerns about security and business disputes in Kisumu.
