Murkomen says suspects identified in lawyer Kyalo Mbobu’s murder, police pursuing others

Murkomen says suspects identified in lawyer Kyalo Mbobu’s murder, police pursuing others

The CS noted that the government will not relent until the masterminds behind the attack are brought to book.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed that several individuals linked to the killing of Nairobi lawyer Kyalo Mbobu have already been identified, with some undergoing interrogation while others are being sought as part of ongoing investigations.

Speaking on Thursday during the Jukwaa la Usalama, Nyanza chapter, in Migori County, the CS noted that the government will not relent until the masterminds behind the attack are brought to book.

“This is a very sad thing that has happened in our country, it’s akin to what happened to former MP Ongondo Were, and I am happy to note that there is progress that has been made by the DCI,” Murkomen said, adding that the slain lawyer was his teacher, colleague and friend.

He stressed that the assassination of Mbobu was a terrible incident that had shaken the country.

“We do not know the motive yet. I am very interested to know what really happened… I am in a position of responsibility and in constant consultation with the DCI,” he said while sending his condolences to the family.

The CS also called on Kenyans to volunteer any information that could assist in the probe and commended eyewitnesses who have already given their accounts.

“It is in the interest of the security sector and Kenyans that the truth comes out. I am very optimistic that in a very short time, we will have leads as far as this issue is concerned,” he said.

Murkomen made it clear that the government does not only expedite cases involving high-profile figures but is equally committed to resolving all cases without discrimination.

“…Including the assistant chiefs who were murdered weeks ago in Migori. It is good for the DCI to unravel such acts. I will ensure justice is served and the perpetrators brought to book,” he said.

Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor has confirmed that Mbobu died from massive blood loss and extensive injuries after being shot eight times. He said two bullets were retrieved from the body, including one lodged in the lawyer’s left arm.

“Upon having examined the body, we found that Wakili was shot a total of eight times. And with most of the gunshot coming from the right side of the body, we were able to recover two bullets, which are being given to the investigative officer for ballistic purposes,” he said.

Oduor explained that the fatal injuries were caused by bullets that damaged neck vessels, leading to excessive bleeding and also resulting in a spinal injury, though the chest cavity was not affected.

“There was a lot of bleeding because there was an injury to the neck vessels. There was also injury to the spine. So these injuries were severe enough to cause death,” he said.

He added that gunpowder burns on the lawyer’s skin showed the shots were fired at close range, indicating a carefully planned execution.

Mbobu was gunned down in a drive-by shooting on Tuesday, September 9, while driving home along Magadi Road near the Galleria Brookside area in Karen. Police had earlier disclosed that several spent cartridges remained unaccounted for from his vehicle.

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has since announced plans to hold a Purple Ribbon March on September 12, 2025, to protest the killing. LSK President Faith Odhiambo urged lawyers, members of the public, and human rights defenders to join the procession in solidarity with the legal fraternity.

“His service to the country leaves an indelible mark on his legacy. May his soul rest in peace,” Odhiambo said, while noting that the society was deeply concerned about the safety of advocates and viewed the incident as a possible premeditated assassination.

Mbobu, who also served as the Chairman of the Political Parties Dispute Tribunal, was praised for his outstanding contribution to law and governance. He also lectured at the University of Nairobi, with the LSK noting that his scholarly works, particularly in the field of evidence law, will continue to guide practitioners.

Reader Comments

Trending

Latest Stories

Popular Stories This Week

Stay ahead of the news! Click ‘Yes, Thanks’ to receive breaking stories and exclusive updates directly to your device. Be the first to know what’s happening.