A major breakthrough has been made in the investigation into the fatal shooting of a man in Ang’ata Barrikoi, Transmara South, after detectives arrested a key suspect months after the deadly attack that shocked the local community.
Detectives from the Operations Action Team (OAT), working jointly with officers from Transmara South Sub-County, have arrested Joshua Nkabash Sakuyiai, who is believed to be the prime suspect in the killing of 35-year-old Charles Korir. Korir was shot dead on the night of August 13, 2025, in what police describe as a calculated and violent ambush.
The arrest marks a significant step forward in a case that has remained under active investigation since the fatal incident, as authorities intensify efforts to track down other suspects believed to have participated in the crime.
Gunshots Shatter the Night
According to police reports, the incident occurred on the evening of August 13, when residents living near Loliondo Farm in Mashangwa area, along the Ngeendalel–Mashangwa Road, reported hearing multiple gunshots.
Officers rushed to the scene moments later, where they made a grim discovery. Charles Korir was found lying lifeless, having been shot twice in the head at close range. Investigators say the nature of the wounds indicated a deliberate execution-style killing.
The area was immediately sealed off as detectives and crime scene investigators began collecting evidence. Photographs were taken, shell casings documented, and witness statements recorded in what police described as a meticulous forensic process.
Korir’s body was later transferred to Kilgoris Hospital Mortuary, where it was preserved pending a post-mortem examination to establish further details surrounding the cause of death.
Ambush by Armed Gang
Preliminary investigations revealed that Korir was ambushed by a gang of approximately eight armed men. Police believe the attackers struck swiftly before escaping through a nearby sugarcane plantation, using the dense crops as cover as they fled towards Migori County.
The motive behind the killing has not been publicly disclosed, but detectives have indicated that the level of coordination involved suggests the attack was planned in advance.
“This was not a random shooting,” a senior investigator familiar with the case said. “The suspects appear to have known the victim’s movements and struck with precision before disappearing.”
The violent nature of the killing sent shockwaves through Ang’ata Barrikoi and surrounding areas, with residents expressing fear and calling for increased security patrols.
Relentless Manhunt Pays Off
Following the murder, police launched an intensive manhunt, drawing on forensic evidence, intelligence reports, and tips from members of the public.
Detectives say progress was slow but steady, as officers followed multiple leads across Transmara and neighbouring regions. The breakthrough came late last year when investigators zeroed in on Joshua Nkabash Sakuyiai as a key suspect.
On December 31, 2025, detectives cornered and arrested Sakuyiai in Lolgorian, ending months of evasion.
Police sources say the arrest was made possible by forensic leads and sustained surveillance, underscoring the importance of persistence in complex criminal investigations.
Court Appearance and Bail Decision
Following his arrest, Sakuyiai was processed and arraigned before the Kilgoris Law Courts.
The court granted him cash bail of Sh100,000, pending further proceedings. However, police confirmed that the suspect was unable to raise the bail amount and was subsequently remanded at Lolgorian Police Station.
The case is scheduled for mention on January 13, 2026, when prosecutors are expected to update the court on the status of investigations and the pursuit of additional suspects.
Legal experts say the mention date will be crucial in determining whether the prosecution is ready to proceed to full trial or requires more time to complete investigations.
Accomplices Still at Large
While the arrest of Sakuyiai represents a major development, detectives have stressed that the case is far from over.
Authorities believe several accomplices involved in the killing remain at large and have vowed to continue operations until all suspects are apprehended.
“We are actively pursuing more leads,” police said in a statement. “This arrest is just one step. We are committed to ensuring that everyone involved in this heinous crime is brought to justice.”
Security agencies have increased patrols in parts of Transmara South and neighbouring areas as investigations continue.
Community Reaction and Call for Justice
The killing of Charles Korir left a deep scar on the local community, with residents describing him as a familiar face in the area.
Community leaders have welcomed the arrest but urged authorities to move swiftly and transparently to ensure justice is served.
“This has been a long wait for the family and the community,” one local elder said. “We hope the truth will now come out and those responsible will be punished.”
Human rights advocates have also called for thorough investigations, warning against impunity in cases involving violent crimes.
Police Appeal for Information
As part of the ongoing investigation, detectives have renewed their appeal to the public to provide information that could help track down the remaining suspects.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any relevant details anonymously through the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
#FichuaKwaDCI
📞 0800 722 203 (Toll-free)
📱 WhatsApp: 0709 570 000
Police say public cooperation remains vital in dismantling criminal networks and ensuring long-term security in the region.
A Case That Highlights Ongoing Security Challenges
The Ang’ata Barrikoi shooting is the latest in a series of violent incidents that have raised concerns about security in parts of Transmara South and neighbouring counties.
Analysts say the case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in tackling organised criminal activity, particularly in rural areas with difficult terrain.
As the case returns to court later this month, attention will remain firmly on investigators, prosecutors, and the justice system — and on whether the arrest of one suspect will lead to the full unraveling of a deadly gang responsible for a cold-blooded killing.
For the family of Charles Korir, the hope is simple: accountability, closure, and justice.
