The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has intensified efforts to uncover the circumstances surrounding the brutal murder of activist Richard Otieno, who was found dead in Elburgon, Molo, on January 18. A specialized homicide team, led by Homicide Director Martin Nyuguto, visited the crime scene on Tuesday to gather evidence and assess the case.
Otieno was reportedly ambushed and clobbered to death near his gate after watching a match at a local bar. Witnesses, including his widow Margaret Mwihaki, revealed that three unknown individuals had trailed him home before the fatal attack.
Nyuguto assured Otieno’s family that justice would be served, pledging thorough investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice. The team also held discussions with the family, emphasizing their commitment to uncovering the truth behind the activist’s murder.
The case has sparked public outrage, with protests erupting in Molo following the discovery of Otieno’s body in a thicket near Molo River in Turi. Demonstrators stormed the Elburgon morgue, where the body was initially preserved, forcefully taking it to Molo in a show of anger and frustration. Roads in the area were barricaded with stones and bonfires as residents condemned the mysterious killing.
Police later relocated the body to the Kericho County Referral Hospital morgue to prevent further disruptions. According to Molo sub-county Police Commander Timon Odingo, sniffer dogs played a crucial role in recovering the body after the chaotic scenes.
The investigation will focus on several aspects, including threats Otieno reportedly received before his death and the identities of the individuals who allegedly followed him on Thursday, two days before the murder.
A postmortem is expected to be conducted this week, with the government pathologist arriving to determine the cause of death. Otieno’s family lawyer, Roselinda Wamaitha, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing efforts, stating, “We are informed that the postmortem will be conducted very soon, and we are happy with the progress so far.”
The tragic death of Richard Otieno has sent shockwaves through the community, with many calling for swift justice. As the homicide team delves deeper into the case, the focus remains on uncovering the truth behind the activist’s killing and holding the perpetrators accountable.
