Who Wanted to Assassinate President Ruto? Bomb Discovered Under Migori Bridge Raises Security Alarm (Photos)

President William Ruto narrowly escaped potential danger after security officers uncovered a hidden explosive device beneath a bridge in Migori County, just days before his planned visit to the region.

According to security sources, the device—described as a highly sophisticated Improvised Explosive Device (IED)—was detected on Tuesday during routine surveillance operations. The discovery was made by a joint team drawn from the Presidential Escort Unit and the Rapid Response Unit, both of which are tasked with safeguarding the Head of State.

Bomb Found Along Key Route Used by Official Convoys

Investigators revealed that the explosive had been carefully planted under a bridge located along a route frequently used by residents and official government convoys. This particular stretch of road was expected to be part of the President’s travel plan during his anticipated development tour in Migori.

The device was reportedly discovered just one day before President Ruto was scheduled to visit the county, a timing that immediately escalated the incident into a high-level national security concern.

Heightened Security Ahead of Presidential Visit

Migori County had been actively preparing for the President’s tour, which was expected to involve inspections of ongoing government projects and meetings with local leaders and residents. Traders, community members, and county officials were anticipating increased economic and social activity linked to the visit.

However, the discovery of the explosive abruptly shifted focus from development initiatives to urgent security operations.

Scene Secured as Bomb Experts Step In

Following the discovery, police swiftly sealed off the area and restricted movement as specialised bomb disposal units were deployed. After careful examination, experts successfully neutralised the explosive, averting what could have resulted in significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure.

Security officials later confirmed that the bomb had been deliberately placed under the bridge, ruling out any possibility of an accident. Investigators are treating the case as a targeted and premeditated threat, rather than an isolated incident.

Investigations Ongoing

Authorities have launched intensive investigations to identify those behind the attempted attack and to determine their motive. Intelligence teams are analysing the device and reviewing surveillance data as part of broader efforts to dismantle any networks linked to the plot.

Photos of the sophisticated explosive device have since emerged, underscoring the seriousness of the threat and the level of planning involved.

Here are photos of the IED that was discovered in Migori ahead of President William Ruto’s tour.