NAIROBI, Kenya – Police have arrested five suspects in connection with the brutal murder of Molo-based activist Richard Haga Otieno, who was slain near his Elburgon residence on January 18, 2025.
Otieno, known as the “Molo President” for his relentless activism, was attacked just 200 meters from Elburgon Police Station, a chilling detail that fueled public outrage.
His death has sparked widespread protests, with residents taking to the streets to demand justice.
Elburgon residents protest the killing of Molo-based activist, Richard Otieno commonly known as “Molo President”
Who Are the Key Suspects?
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed that a multi-agency team—including homicide detectives and the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB)—is leading the probe.
The five arrested suspects are set to appear in Nakuru Court on Monday, February 3, as investigators seek additional time to detain them for further questioning.
Among those in custody are:
- Two bodaboda riders believed to have transported the assailants to and from the crime scene.
- Three individuals forensically linked to the murder, including one who is suspected of directly participating in the killing.
- Two suspects previously convicted for assaulting Otieno on November 8, 2024, and sentenced to a one-year probation.
“We have key suspects in this murder, and if there are more, we are actively pursuing them,” said DCI Director Mohamed Amin.
Brutal Attack Confirmed by Autopsy
A post-mortem conducted by government pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor at Kericho Hospital mortuary confirmed that Otieno died from severe head injuries caused by a sharp weapon, possibly a panga or axe.
“There were multiple slash wounds at the back of the head, causing a fractured skull and excessive brain bleeding. The frontal area was also slashed, though it did not fracture the skull,” said Dr. Oduor.
Independent pathologist Dr. Titus Ngulugu, representing the family and the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU), confirmed the findings, calling them thorough and accurate.
Public Outrage and Protests Intensify
Otieno’s wife revealed that he had been receiving threats and was being followed by unknown individuals before his death—a chilling indication that his activism put him in danger.
His murder ignited mass protests, with angry residents blocking roads and even seizing his body from authorities to parade it through the streets in defiance.
The unrest forced police to move his remains to Kericho Town for preservation.
With tensions still running high, all eyes are now on the court proceedings and whether authorities will deliver the justice that Otieno’s supporters are demanding.
