The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has taken a significant step to address the rising number of murder cases in Kenya by relocating its Homicide Unit to a new office block in Nairobi. The unit, previously housed at the DCI headquarters on Kiambu Road, has been moved to the Nairobi Area Regional headquarters near the Integrity Centre. This relocation is part of a broader effort to enhance the unit’s focus and effectiveness in tackling the increasing murder cases reported nationwide.
Formation of the Cold Case Unit
In a move to address old and unsolved murder cases, the DCI has also established a Cold Case Unit under the Homicide Unit. This sub-unit will focus on reviving and actively investigating previously unresolved cases. A DCI official explained, “The Cold Case Unit is a new kid on the block, and its focus will be on all old cases. We hope to ensure all these cases are solved or at least revived for further investigation.”
This initiative comes amidst rising concerns over the number of unsolved murder cases in the country. The Cold Case Unit is expected to operate as a specialized sub-division, similar to other prominent units like the Anti-Terror Police Unit (ATPU).
Enhanced Resources for the Homicide Unit
DCI Director Mohamed Amin confirmed that the Homicide Unit’s relocation aims to provide the team with the resources needed to handle the increasing workload effectively. On average, the DCI receives eight new murder cases daily. To manage this caseload, an additional 50 officers will join the Homicide Unit.
Plans are also underway to establish regional offices for the unit, enhancing its accessibility and operational reach. The new offices, formerly occupied by the Flying Squad, will be officially launched by Deputy Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.
Specialized Units for Missing Persons
In a related development, the DCI has established a specialized Missing Persons Unit (MPU) under the Homicide Unit. The MPU will focus on cases of individuals reported missing and will work closely with police stations, hospitals, mortuaries, and prison authorities.
“We urge anyone with a missing case to report it to the police,” Amin said, emphasizing that all relevant agencies have been informed to streamline efforts in resolving such cases.
Rising Murder Cases and Police Response
The move to strengthen the Homicide Unit and create specialized sub-units follows a slight increase in murder cases over recent months. A comparative analysis of murder cases reported between August and October over three years shows a minor upward trend. In 2024, 339 cases were reported, compared to 336 in 2023 and 341 in 2022.
While the overall annual homicide figures show fluctuations ranging from 2,856 cases in 2018 to a peak of 3,281 in 2021 authorities remain committed to addressing this critical issue.
Kanja noted that most murder cases involving young women and girls have been investigated, with suspects identified and arraigned. Gender Desks in police stations across the country are on high alert to respond to gender-based violence swiftly.
Investigating Police Implications in Deaths
Responding to deaths witnessed during anti-government protests earlier this year, Kanja assured the public that all cases implicating police officers are being thoroughly investigated by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
Strengthening Homicide Investigations
Established in September 2008, the Homicide Unit has grown from a skeleton structure to a well-resourced division within the DCI. Its mandate includes investigating homicide cases, handling mass murders and violent crimes, and liaising with pathologists, government chemists, and international investigative agencies.
The creation of the Cold Case Unit and MPU marks a significant enhancement of Kenya’s capacity to address violent crimes, bringing hope for justice to families affected by unresolved cases. These developments underscore the police service’s commitment to strengthening public safety and accountability.
