MERU, Kenya – Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed on May 7, 2025, that the government has apprehended suspects linked to the murder of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were.
Murkomen further assured that investigations are ongoing, and law enforcement is targeting the perpetrators and their collaborators in the crime.
The murder of the MP, which shocked the nation, is now under intense scrutiny, with security agencies making rapid progress, aided by intelligence, technology, and public collaboration.
Murkomen lauded the swift response from law enforcement, noting that improved security systems and evidence analysis had been pivotal in narrowing down the suspects.
“It is shocking to know the gruesome manner in which this heinous crime was committed,” Murkomen said.
A Murder Weapon and a Trail of EvidencePolice recovered the pistol used in last week’s assassination of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were during a major operation in Kayole’s Chokaa area. Investigators also seized a second firearm, a suspect’s bag and shoes, police uniforms,
He assured the public that the government is committed to ensuring the safety of all Kenyans, regardless of their status.
“Those perpetrators and collaborators will all be apprehended and severely punished to deter those with similar intentions from committing future crimes,” he added.
Murkomen’s comments came in the wake of the arrest of several suspects, with authorities quickly closing in on those responsible for the brutal act.
The CS emphasized that the arrests send a strong message to anyone contemplating harming fellow citizens, stressing that the government’s primary goal is the protection of all citizens.
“These people were quickly picked up, and it sends a clear signal to anyone thinking of committing crimes that they cannot get away with it,” Murkomen warned. “We are committed to ensuring Kenyans are safe. Our focus is not on a specific class of citizens, but on everyone.”
He also pointed out the tragic irony that the MP was gunned down while under the protection of his bodyguard, underscoring the growing security challenges that face public figures.
The CS’s comments also highlighted the government’s broader commitment to addressing threats to safety, asserting that it remains vigilant in the face of such targeted violence.
Police Recover Firearm Believed to Have Killed MP Ong’ondo Were ynews.digital/newsflash/poli…
In addition to the investigation into Were’s murder, Murkomen also addressed an incident involving the President’s security.
During a public event in Migori, a shoe was thrown at President William Ruto, raising concerns over potential lapses in his security.
Murkomen assured the public that the matter is under investigation, with authorities working to determine whether the incident was an intentional act and whether it revealed any security weaknesses.
“The matter is under investigation to establish whether there was a lapse in the part of the President’s security and whether there was a motive to harm the President,” Murkomen stated. “We must at all times ensure the President is not harmed in any way. The consequences of such acts are dire, and we must be vigilant to protect those in positions of power.”
Murkomen’s comments came after a security meeting at the Meru County Commissioner’s headquarters, where he had met with regional and county security chiefs as part of his Jukwaa la Usalama tour.
During the meeting, the team briefed the CS on the security situation in Upper Eastern Kenya, particularly in the wake of recent concerns regarding local crime and public safety.
