Sammy Kioko, Tom Daktari Allegedly Arrested During Heated Protest Over Unpaid County Bills

Sammy Kioko was allegedly arrested while protesting outside the Machakos County Government offices. Photo: Sammy Kioko.

Comedian Sammy Kioko and his friend Tom Daktari were allegedly arrested while staging a protest against unpaid dues by the Machakos County Government.

Kioko had earlier announced plans to demonstrate outside the county offices over delayed payments.

He had invited media, contractors, and suppliers to join him in raising concerns about unsettled bills, urging those affected to remain firm and resist intimidation.

During a press briefing held on Friday, March 27, Kioko, alongside other contractors, claimed they were owed money by the county government, with some alleging harassment and delayed payments for services rendered.

Tensions reportedly escalated when the event was disrupted by unidentified individuals, forcing those present to disperse.

Despite the disruption, Kioko vowed to proceed with the planned protest, even issuing an ultimatum to Governor Wavinya Ndeti, demanding payment within a set timeframe.

He maintained that he and his sister were owed about KSh 19 million for supplying uniforms under a county tender.

On the eve of the planned demonstration, the county government suggested that Kioko was not directly involved in the contract in question, adding that there was a plan to clear outstanding bills.

However, Kioko dismissed the statement and insisted he would still show up at the county offices.

On Tuesday, March 31, Kioko alleged that county officers had been deployed heavily around the premises ahead of the protest. His allies, including Nasra Yusuff and Tom Daktari, showed up in solidarity.

Shortly after, Nasra claimed that Kioko had been assaulted and detained by county askaris.

She further alleged that Tom Daktari was also taken into custody. A video shared online appeared to show Kioko being restrained and dragged during a confrontation at the county offices, though it remains unclear who exactly was involved in the incident.

A uniformed police officer was seen nearby during the altercation, but it was not immediately confirmed whether county officers or police were responsible for the alleged arrests.

As of this publication, reports suggest that he was admitted at the Athi River Level Hospital. Details about his condition remain limited.