Police in Nairobi have confiscated a firearm belonging to Kileleshwa MCA, Robert Alai, following a heated altercation with Embakasi East MP, Babu Owino, at a restaurant in Kilimani.
The incident, which unfolded on the afternoon of January 3, has sparked widespread controversy, with both politicians now under investigation.
According to Kilimani OCPD, Patricia Yegon, the firearm was seized shortly after the altercation, and both Alai and Owino recorded statements at the station.
“The firearm is now in our custody at Kilimani Police Station,” Yegon confirmed. “The two individuals have already provided their statements.”
The confrontation reportedly began when Babu Owino arrived at the restaurant, located on Lenana Road, around 3:40 p.m.
Owino, who was meeting with a clergyman, had no idea that things were about to take a violent turn. After a brief discussion, Owino stood up to leave.
However, when he approached a nearby table to greet a group of familiar faces, he unexpectedly found himself face-to-face with Robert Alai.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino. Photo Courtesy/The Standard.
Owino claims that Alai, seemingly angered by online attacks on his wife, confronted him aggressively.
“Without any provocation, he accused me of being behind the attacks on his wife,” Owino explained.
“I calmly tried to explain that I had no involvement, but he wouldn’t listen.”
Things quickly escalated when Alai allegedly became physical, pushing Owino before drawing a pistol and striking him on the chest.
“He hit me with the gun in front of everyone,” Owino said, clearly shaken by the attack.
“It was a shocking experience to be assaulted like that.”
Owino denied any wrongdoing, stating that he has always refrained from attacking women or engaging in personal disputes.
“I have no issues with his wife, and I would never involve a family member in my political work,” Owino emphasized.
Witnesses at the restaurant reportedly watched in disbelief as the violence unfolded.
The Kilimani Police are continuing their investigation into the incident, and Alai’s firearm remains in their custody.