The murder of Molo-based activist Richard Haga Otieno has taken a new turn as police arrested five suspects in connection with the brutal killing. The arrests, made by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Homicide Unit and the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB), come as investigators intensify efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding Otieno’s death.
Otieno, popularly known as the ‘Molo President,’ was attacked near his residential apartment in Elburgon Town on January 18, 2025, just 200 meters from the Elburgon police station. The activist, known for his outspokenness against local injustices, sustained severe head injuries caused by a sharp object, believed to be a panga or axe.
Following his murder, tensions escalated as outraged residents staged protests, blocking roads and even parading his body through the streets. The situation prompted authorities to move his remains to Kericho Town, where government pathologist Johansen Oduor, alongside Dr. Titus Ngulugu of the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU), conducted an autopsy. Their findings confirmed multiple slash wounds to the back and front of the skull, a fractured skull, excessive brain bleeding, and defensive wounds on his arms, indicating he fought for his life before succumbing to the attack.
The five suspects arrested include two bodaboda riders accused of ferrying the alleged killers to and from the murder scene. One suspect is believed to be directly involved in the attack, while two others had previously assaulted Otieno on November 8, 2024, and were convicted to serve one year on probation. Forensic evidence has since placed all three key suspects at the scene of the crime on the night of January 18.
According to DCI Director Mohamed Amin, the arrests mark a significant breakthrough in the case. “We have key suspects in this murder and if there are more, we are pursuing the matter,” he stated. The suspects are set to appear before the Nakuru Court on Monday, February 3, where police will seek extended detention orders to facilitate further investigations.
Otieno’s wife revealed that he had been receiving threats and was being trailed by unknown individuals, likely due to his activism and disputes with local politicians. His murder has heightened concerns over the safety of activists in Kenya, igniting public calls for justice and increased protection for human rights defenders.
As the case unfolds, the nation watches closely, awaiting justice for the slain activist whose fearless advocacy made him both a champion for the people and, ultimately, a target.
