DCI Launches Investigation into Brutal Murder of Activist Richard Otieno in Elburgon

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has initiated an investigation into the murder of Richard Otieno, a prominent activist and vocal critic of the government, known in his community as the "Molo President."

Otieno was brutally attacked on Saturday night near the Elburgon Police Station, shortly after watching an English Premier League match at his home in Elburgon town. Prior to his murder, Otieno reported being followed by three unidentified individuals and had voiced concerns over threats to his safety.

In light of these alarming circumstances, detectives led by Homicide Department Director Martin Nyuguto visited the crime scene on Tuesday to collect evidence. The DCI has assured Otieno's family of a thorough investigation aimed at identifying and apprehending those responsible for the crime.

Family lawyer Roselinda Wamaitha emphasizes the commitment of the DCI to uncover the circumstances of Otieno’s death. Molo Police Commander Timon Odingo confirms that investigators are pursuing promising leads. A detective in the case disclosed that the team is carefully reviewing Otieno's recent movements, the threats he received, and eyewitness accounts related to the three individuals allegedly following him.

Among those scheduled for questioning are several witnesses and two local politicians, as the investigation seeks to piece together crucial details related to the murder. A postmortem examination by Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor is expected to provide vital information that will inform the investigation. The murder has sparked outrage in Elburgon, with hundreds of residents gathering at the Elburgon Sub-County Hospital mortuary to demand accountability from authorities.

In a poignant act of protest, community members transported Otieno's body in a plastic bag, initially placing it outside the Elburgon Police Station before marching approximately five kilometres along the Elburgon-Molo road with it. The body has since been relocated to a mortuary in Kericho for preservation.
To mitigate potential unrest, a heavy police presence has been established in Elburgon and adjacent areas.

Molo MP Kuria Kimani has called for calm while pledging his support for a rigorous investigation. He affirms that his political disagreements with Otieno were purely ideological and not personal. Additionally, Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika and Senator Tabitha Karanja Keroche have voiced their demands for a thorough investigation, reiterating the community's call for justice.

David Kuria, director of the Nakuru Human Rights Network, has urged the DCI to expedite its efforts to ensure that both the perpetrators and any masterminds are swiftly arrested and prosecuted.