DCI identifies persons of interest in Molo activist's murder investigation

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has revealed that it has identified several "individuals of interest" in its ongoing investigation into the murder of Richard Otieno, a prominent Molo-based activist.

In a statement on Saturday, the DCI confirmed that investigations into the killing are still ongoing, with authorities recording statements from witnesses and collecting more evidence.

The DCI also stated that the individuals of interest identified could provide key insights into the crime, which continues to send shockwaves through the community.

"The investigating team has identified several individuals of interest who may provide crucial insights into this case as it continues to record statements from witnesses," the DCI said in the statement.

Otieno, a youth mobiliser and outspoken critic of local leadership, was brutally attacked and hacked to death on the night of January 18, 2025.

His body was discovered near the gate of his rented apartment on January 19, sparking outrage among local residents who accused authorities of failing to address growing insecurity in the region.

The agency has assured the public that it is committed to conducting a thorough and professional investigation to bring those responsible to justice.

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The DCI also appealed to the public to share any information they might have regarding the incident to aid in the investigation.

"We appeal to the public to remain patient and share any information they may have regarding the incident with the investigating team," the DCI added.

Development in the investigation occurred on January 24, when a team from the DCI's Homicide Unit, along with forensic experts, visited the Kericho Referral Level 4 Hospital mortuary to conduct a postmortem on Otieno's body.

Chief Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor, who performed the autopsy, revealed that Otieno had suffered severe injuries, including multiple slash wounds to the head and hands, which ultimately led to his death.

Oduor described the injuries as consistent with an attack using a sharp object, possibly a panga or an axe.

"There were also slash wounds on the frontal area of the head though these did not fracture the skull. There were also bruises on the face. We also found bruises on the arms which looked like someone who tried to defend himself," he said.

The pathologist further confirmed that Otieno died from a severe head injury caused by a sharp object.

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"From these findings, we can say that the late Richard (Otieno) died as a result of severe head injury which was caused by a sharp object which could either be a panga or an axe which was used severally on the head," Oduor explained.

Samples were taken from the body for further forensic analysis, including toxicological and DNA tests, which may assist in identifying the attackers.

In addition to that, The Kenya National Human Rights Commission (KNHRC) and the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU) have also sent representatives to support the investigation, with Red Cross providing counselling services to affected individuals.