MACHAKOS, Kenya — The burial of prominent lawyer Mathew Kyalo Mbobu will take place on Wednesday, September 17, at his Mua home in Machakos County, even as detectives intensify investigations into his brazen daylight killing last week.
Mbobu, a former chairman of the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal, was gunned down on September 9 along Magadi Road, Nairobi.
Gunmen riding on a motorcycle sprayed his vehicle with bullets, hitting him in the chest and neck before escaping. He died instantly.
On Tuesday, a memorial service was held at St John’s Catholic Church in Karen, where family, colleagues, and friends paid tribute to the lawyer, described as a dedicated professional and family man.
Investigations Intensify
Homicide detectives have pitched camp at Mbobu’s office in search of possible leads, combing through documents and interviewing staff.
More than 15 people, including colleagues, boda boda riders at the scene, restaurant staff, and bank employees, have been questioned.
The probe is also examining whether financial transactions or professional engagements could have been linked to his killing.
Mobile phone data and surveillance footage from nearby areas are under review to establish if he was trailed before the attack.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed that investigators had gathered “valuable leads” but admitted the lack of CCTV coverage along Lang’ata and Magadi roads had slowed progress.
“Because he is a lawyer, of course the first thing that comes to mind is whether someone was exerting revenge or attacking him by virtue of his professional duties,” Murkomen said.
Three individuals initially held as persons of interest were released over the weekend, forcing detectives back to the drawing board. The murder weapon has yet to be recovered.
Public Appeal for Information
Director of Public Prosecutions Mulele Ingonga has directed the Inspector General of Police to fast-track the probe and provide a status report within seven days.
In a statement, Ingonga urged members of the public with information to assist investigators:
“The ODPP echoes the DCI’s appeal for members of the public with any information relevant to this case to come forward and share it with law enforcement agencies without delay.”
The DPP reaffirmed the State’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, adding that the legal fraternity and Kenyans at large mourn Mbobu’s killing, which has revived concerns over insecurity in Nairobi.
