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In a significant breakthrough, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested five suspects linked to the brutal murder of Richard Otieno, a prominent Nakuru activist popularly known as *Molo President*. The arrests come after an intensive investigation into the killing, which has sparked outrage and protests in the region.
According to a statement released by the DCI on Monday, three of the suspects are believed to have directly participated in the murder, while the other two are bodaboda riders who allegedly transported the perpetrators to and from the crime scene.
Key Details of the Investigation
The DCI revealed that two of the suspects had previously been arrested for assaulting Otieno on November 18, 2024. They were convicted and sentenced to one-year probation for the assault. This prior incident played a crucial role in identifying the suspects, as forensic evidence placed them at the scene of the murder. Investigators have gathered substantial evidence to support their prosecution.
All five suspects are currently in police custody and are awaiting arraignment in court to face charges related to the murder.
A Gruesome Crime Sparks Public Outrage
Richard Otieno’s body was discovered on Sunday, January 19, 2025, outside his home in Elburgon, Molo. He had been hacked to death with an axe the previous night. The gruesome nature of the killing prompted widespread anger among local residents, who stormed the mortuary where his body was being held. They carried his remains through the streets in a protest march, demanding justice for the slain activist.
Otieno was a well-known youth leader and an outspoken critic of local political leaders in Molo and Nakuru. He had also expressed aspirations to run for the position of ward representative in Molo Constituency before his untimely death.
Calls for Justice and Political Reactions
Since his murder, activists, ordinary citizens, and politicians have united in condemning the killing. Many believe that Otieno’s activism and criticism of the government may have been a motivating factor behind his assassination.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was among those who called for justice. In a statement posted a day after the murder, Gachagua said, “As we mourn the death of this promising young man, who was a great human rights defender and champion, we call for justice. His killers must be brought to book, come what may.”
Ongoing Investigations
The DCI has deployed a specialized team comprising officers from the Homicide Directorate, Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau, and Operations Division to further interrogate the suspects and gather additional evidence. The investigation aims to establish a clear connection between the suspects and the murder, ensuring a strong case for prosecution.
The murder of Richard Otieno has highlighted the dangers faced by activists in Kenya, particularly those who challenge powerful political interests. As the case unfolds, many are watching closely to see whether justice will be served for the slain activist, whose death has left a void in the fight for accountability and human rights in the region.
The DCI has assured the public that it remains committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that those responsible for Otieno’s death face the full force of the law.
