In a major breakthrough, the National Police Service (NPS) has announced the arrest of four suspects in connection with the fatal shooting of Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were. The news comes as a relief to many Kenyans still grappling with the shock of the tragic incident.
According to a press statement issued on May 4, 2025, by the Office of the Inspector General through the National Police Service Headquarters, the arrests follow intensive investigations and analysis of previously obtained leads. The statement, signed by Director of Corporate Communication and NPS Spokesperson, Resila Onyango, highlighted that all four suspects had been “positively placed at the crime scene.”
Evidence Recovered, Criminal Gang Linked to Killing
In addition to the arrests, NPS officers successfully recovered what they termed “crucial evidence” linking the suspects directly to the crime. While the nature of this evidence was not disclosed for investigative reasons, its discovery is expected to play a key role in securing convictions.
The press release also revealed that some of the suspects belong to a notorious organized criminal gang known as “Mjahidin.” This gang has a history of involvement in armed robberies, particularly in the Eastlands area of Nairobi, making their connection to the case especially alarming. The NPS did not confirm whether the killing of Hon. Were was part of a robbery or a targeted political assassination, but said that investigators are now focused on establishing the exact motive behind the murder.
Police Urge Public Calm, Warn Against Speculation
In a call for calm, the National Police Service urged members of the public to avoid speculation and allow investigative teams to complete their work. “We urge the public to remain calm and refrain from speculating, as our teams work diligently to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation,” the statement read.
The NPS further warned individuals not directly involved in the case to desist from making public comments that could potentially hinder the ongoing investigation. “The public is advised to refrain from making comments that could hinder ongoing efforts,” the statement cautioned.
Focus on Justice for Family and Nation
The Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to holding all those responsible accountable and delivering justice to the family of the late Hon. Were and the Kenyan public. The press release emphasized the dedication of NPS investigators and the technical team, who are “working tirelessly, leveraging their expertise.”
“The NPS remains committed to holding those responsible to account and delivering justice to Hon. Were’s family and the nation,” said the spokesperson.
Appeal for Public Help in Investigations
In an effort to bring all perpetrators to justice, the NPS appealed to members of the public who may have information regarding the incident to come forward. They urged citizens to report any relevant information by visiting the nearest police station or using the toll-free lines 999, 112, or #FichuaKwaDCI (0800 722 203).
This call for public cooperation signals the complexity and seriousness of the ongoing investigation and the need for community engagement to ensure all involved parties are identified and brought to book.
Background: The Shocking Assassination of Hon. Were
Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were was shot in what police have now confirmed to be a well-coordinated attack. The incident sent shockwaves across the political landscape and triggered an outpouring of grief and calls for swift justice from fellow politicians, civil society, and the public at large.
Were, known for his vocal stances in Parliament and community outreach in his constituency, had not reported any direct threats prior to the attack, making the incident all the more baffling and distressing.
The circumstances surrounding his shooting remain unclear, with speculation ranging from political motives to criminal activity. However, with the involvement of a known gang like Mjahidin now confirmed, the case may span broader criminal networks.
Public Confidence in Police Grows After Swift Action
The swift arrests and transparency in communication by the NPS have been met with cautious optimism from the public. Many Kenyans have taken to social media to commend the force for making progress, with hashtags such as #JusticeForWere and #FichuaKwaDCI trending nationwide.
Security analysts have noted that the mention of the Mjahidin gang indicates a potentially wider network of criminal activity that could lead to further arrests in coming days. Some have called for a comprehensive crackdown on organized criminal groups operating in Nairobi and other urban centers.
Next Steps in the Investigation
With the suspects now in custody and crucial evidence recovered, the NPS is expected to proceed with preparing charges against the four men. Legal analysts suggest that the suspects could face multiple charges including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and association with criminal gangs.
The National Police Service has pledged to provide further updates as the investigation unfolds. While no timeline has been given, the tone of the press release reflects a firm resolve to get to the bottom of the killing and bring all those involved to justice.
A Nation Waits
As Kenya watches closely, the arrests mark a significant step forward in what has become a national quest for justice. The family of Hon. Charles Were, while still mourning, may now begin to see light at the end of a dark and painful tunnel.
For now, the focus remains on identifying the motive, dismantling the criminal networks involved, and ensuring that the wheels of justice turn swiftly and effectively.
