Written By Joyce Nzomo
Six suspects linked to the murder of Police Constable Bernard Koome will remain in custody for 21 days to allow police to complete investigations. They were arraigned before Magistrate Hon. Dr. Victor Wakumile at the Thika Law Courts, where the prosecution successfully applied for a custodial order.
PC Koome was shot dead on June 18, 2025, in the Cravers area along the Thika-Garissa Road. He had been on patrol with colleagues when they stopped a rider operating an unregistered motorcycle. The rider drew a pistol and shot Koome, who was rushed to Thika Nursing Home but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), supported by the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau, launched investigations that led to the arrest of NgottoKaranja in Kahawa West on July 18. He was found in possession of a vehicle believed to have been used as a getaway car.
Preliminary call data analysis revealed that Karanja was in constant communication with the gunman both before and on the day of the incident.
This evidence led to the arrest of five other suspects believed to have played key roles in the murder: Kambo Mwangi, Samuel Efesa, Athanase Ndacaisaba, Kelvin Ollinga, and Philip Muchiri.
In an affidavit filed in court, investigating officers argued that the suspects are a flight risk as their residences are unknown.
They also described the six as “very lethal,” warning that they could interfere with witnesses if released.
The prosecution emphasized that the seriousness of the offence and its implications on national security justify the extended detention.
Magistrate Hon. Dr. Victor Wakumile granted the custodial orders, directing that the suspects be held at Thika Police Station.
They are expected to reappear in court on August 11, 2025, after the lapse of the 21-day detention period.
