Investigators are closing in on a suspect linked to the murder of Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles On’gondo Were, who was gunned down along Valley Road on April 30. CCTV footage captured the suspect trailing the MP moments before the attack, offering key insights into the assassination.
Chilling Details of the Attack
According to detectives, the MP was shot four times at close range by a lone gunman who fled on a waiting sports bike. The attack, which unfolded at 7:40 PM during a traffic stop, appeared to be a meticulously planned assassination.
Bullet holes riddled the passenger side of the MP’s car, with bloodstains on the console, pointing to the deadly precision of the hit. The MP’s bodyguard and driver, both uninjured, have provided crucial witness accounts.
Timeline of Events
Detectives traced the MP’s movements on his final day, beginning at Parliament, where he attended official duties until 7:00 PM. After leaving, the MP’s vehicle made its way through City Hall Way and Wabera Street.
At Wabera Street, the MP’s bodyguard briefly exited the car to deposit Ksh.20,000 via M-Pesa. CCTV footage from the area shows a man in a hood monitoring the vehicle during this stop.
The car later navigated through Kenyatta Avenue, Ralph Bunche Road, and Argwings Kodhek Road, before encountering traffic along Valley Road. It was here that the suspect, riding a sports bike, dismounted and approached the car.
The assailant fired four shots, hitting the MP in the chest and hand, before fleeing on the bike. The attack lasted less than a minute. Despite being rushed to Nairobi Hospital, the MP was pronounced dead on arrival.
Investigative Efforts
Homicide detectives, led by Director Martin Nyuguto, have recovered three spent cartridges from the scene. Ballistic examinations are underway to trace the weapon used.
Investigators have also collected CCTV footage from Wabera Street, where the suspect was seen trailing the MP’s car. The footage is being analyzed to identify the gunman.
Three individuals, including the MP’s driver, bodyguard, and the M-Pesa attendant, have been questioned. Detectives have also extended their investigation to Kasipul, probing potential political motivations behind the killing.
Political Motive?
Speculation is rife that the assassination may be linked to political disputes. Charles Were, known for his vocal stance on regional issues, had reportedly faced threats in the weeks leading up to his murder.
As detectives piece together the evidence, the nation mourns the loss of a leader whose life was cut short in a brazen act of violence. The case remains under active investigation, with authorities determined to bring the culprits to justice.
