Politician Philip Aroko detained for seven days in probe into Were's murder

A politician accused of financing the murder of Kasipul MP Charles Ong'ondo Were, Philip Nahashon Aroko, has been detained for seven days, rather than the 30 days initially requested, to allow for ongoing investigations.

According to the prosecution, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is conducting financial inquiries to trace money trails that could link Aroko to the crime.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) told the court that Aroko has been linked to a series of meetings in Nairobi, Homa Bay, and Nakuru, which allegedly point to an organised and deliberate effort leading up to the MP’s death.

Investigators are still documenting crime scenes and recording witness testimonies that may implicate Aroko and other suspects.

“Your Honour, we have credible information that the deceased had received threats from the respondent prior to his death. These threats are currently under active investigation and need to be concluded,” the prosecution said.

The matter was reported at the DCI’s regional headquarters.

The prosecution further expressed concern that Aroko’s release could lead to interference with witnesses, given the nature of the threats and the fact that several witnesses have yet to record statements.

“It is in the public interest that investigations be completed thoroughly so that the truth can come to light. We are also seeking orders to extract data from the respondent’s mobile phones, which we fear may be tampered with if he is released, as the data is cloud-based,” they added.

The prosecution argued that the circumstances surrounding the MP’s murder are suspicious and that the scale of financial resources involved suggests the respondent could abscond or interfere with witnesses and other persons of interest.

“This is a matter of significant public interest that requires adequate time to document evidence,” they said.

In his defence, Aroko told the court he is a public figure and had presented himself voluntarily to the DCI, insisting that he is not a flight risk.

“I presented myself after being summoned. I am not a flight risk. I want to clear my name. Thirty days is excessive for a citizen who came to court willingly. I am on medication and request five days instead,” Aroko pleaded.

He also stated that no one had claimed their life was in danger because of him and assured the court he would cooperate fully.

“I will present myself whenever required by the police,” he said.

The magistrate allowed the prosecution’s application but reduced the detention period to seven days instead of 30.

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