On July 7, 2025, Magunas Supermarket in Makutano, Meru County, was looted and set ablaze by alleged rogue protesters during the nationwide Saba Saba demonstrations.
As thousands of Kenyans marched to demand justice and accountability, chaos erupted in Meru when a group of goons, reportedly exploiting the protests, targeted the supermarket. The fire destroyed the store, threatening the livelihoods of approximately 5,000 workers, as police were preoccupied managing protesters elsewhere in the town.
Local residents and business owners condemned the arson, emphasizing Meru’s reputation for industrious entrepreneurship. “This is not protest; it’s destruction,” said a local trader.
The incident, part of the broader #SabaSaba2025 unrest, has sparked outrage, with many calling for accountability for those who turned a peaceful movement into an opportunity for lawlessness. Authorities are yet to confirm arrests related to the arson.
