Kayole, Nairobi — In a significant development in the investigation of last week’s assassination of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, police have made a breakthrough, recovering a pistol believed to have been used in the deadly attack. The operation, conducted in Kayole’s Chokaa area, also led to the seizure of a second firearm, a suspect’s bag and shoes, police uniforms, mobile phones, and over USD 4,800 in cash — evidence pointing to a well-coordinated criminal plan.
Forensic tests have linked the murder weapon to at least three other violent crimes within Nairobi and Kiambu counties, raising concerns about a sprawling criminal syndicate operating behind the scenes.
Four individuals are currently in police custody for 30 days as detectives delve deeper into the case. Among those detained are William Imoli Shighali, alias Omar Shakur, Juma Ali Haikal — a police officer — Douglas Muchiri Wambugu, and David Mihigo Kagame. Authorities believe the assassination was orchestrated by a sophisticated, well-funded network with possible links to corrupt elements within the security forces.
Investigators are actively pursuing additional suspects, including a boda boda rider and a police officer who is believed to have facilitated the hit through a now-deactivated SIM card registered under a false identity. The MP’s driver and bodyguard, who narrowly escaped harm during the attack, have been detained for questioning after providing conflicting accounts of the events.
Meanwhile, the body of Charles Ong’ondo Were will be flown to his hometown of Homa Bay on Thursday, with funeral arrangements set for Friday in Kachien Village. The nation mourns the loss of a leader whose death has sent shockwaves across the region, prompting urgent questions about security and political violence.
As investigations unfold, the hunt for the masterminds behind this heinous crime continues, with authorities promising to bring those responsible to justice and restore peace to the community.
