KERICHO, Kenya — Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations have arrived in Kericho to oversee the planned exhumation of 14 unidentified bodies buried at a public cemetery, in a move aimed at establishing their identities and determining the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
The DCI homicide team is expected to lead forensic preparations for the sensitive exercise, which authorities say will involve pathologists, forensic experts, and crime scene investigators.
The process will begin once all legal and procedural requirements are completed.
Officials indicated that the exhumation forms part of an ongoing investigation into suspected homicide and unexplained deaths.
Investigators believe the remains could provide crucial forensic evidence to help resolve pending cases.
Police have not disclosed how long the bodies have been buried or whether they are linked to specific incidents.
However, authorities emphasized that the operation is necessary to ensure justice for the victims and their families.
The exercise is expected to include forensic sampling, postmortem examinations, and possible DNA analysis to aid identification.
Investigators may also cross-reference missing persons reports and other records during the process.
Residents in Kericho County have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with investigators as the operation gets underway.
Police noted that the process will be conducted in accordance with legal standards and with respect for the dignity of the deceased.
Authorities said further updates will be issued once the exhumation begins and preliminary forensic assessments are completed.
