4 arrested as police link criminal gang to Ong’ondo Were’s killing
Four persons of interest have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Ong’ondo Were.
In a statement on the National Police Service (NPS) official X account on Sunday, May 4, 2025, the officers say the detainees were positively identified at the scene of the crime and include members of the organised criminal gang ‘Mjahidin‘, notorious for armed robberies in Nairobi’s Eastlands.
According to the NPS press release, detectives built upon previously obtained leads to swiftly execute the operation that led to the four arrests. Crucial evidence linking the suspects to both the shooting and the broader criminal network was also recovered during the operation.
“Upon further analysis of previously obtained leads, officers from the National Police Service swiftly conducted an operation and successfully arrested four suspects who had been positively placed at the crime scene. Investigators have also recovered crucial evidence linked to the crime, as well as to the perpetrators,” the NPS statement reads in part.
“Additionally, some of the suspects arrested are members of organised criminal gangs, such as “Mjahidin”, which has been linked to armed robberies in the Eastlands area of Nairobi.”
Police on Were’s case
Urging the public to remain calm and refrain from speculation, the police said their investigative and technical teams are diligently working to determine the shooting’s motive and secure justice.
“NPS investigators and the technical team are working tirelessly, leveraging their expertise, to establish the motive behind the fatal shooting and to bring all those involved to justice,” the NPS statement reads in part.
“As a service, we urge the public to remain calm and refrain from speculating, as our teams work diligently to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation.”
The officers also warned outsiders to avoid comments that could obstruct the investigation.
“Moreover, the NPS advises individuals not directly involved in this investigation to refrain from making comments that could hinder ongoing efforts,” the NPS statement reads in part.
In addition, the police pledged to hold those responsible accountable and deliver justice to Were’s family and the nation and urged anyone with information to contact their nearest station or use their toll-free lines.
“NPS remains committed to holding those responsible to account and delivering justice to Hon. Were’s family and the nation. Furthermore, we continue to appeal to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact the nearest police station or use our toll-free lines: 999, 112, or #FichuakwaDCI (0800 722 203),” the NPS statement reads in part.
“NPS assures the public of its unwavering dedication to resolving this case and will provide further updates as the investigation progresses.”
Were’s death
Were,was shot dead on the night of April 30, 2025, along Ngong Road near the City Mortuary roundabout in what police suspect was a targeted attack.
His murder has prompted widespread condemnation and calls for justice.
President William Ruto, during an interdenominational church service held in Migori County, assured the people of Kasipul and Homa Bay that those responsible for the killing of Were will be brought to justice.
“I have told everyone involved, in no uncertain terms, that the government will ensure the protection of every single citizen,” he declared.
“Just the other day, we were struck by a devastating incident when we lost our MP, Mr Ongondo Were, in a senseless act that has shaken this nation—and I want to give the people of Kasipul and Homa Bay my firm assurance: those behind this evil deed, those who had the audacity to take the life of a sitting Member of Parliament, will not get away with it.”
His burial has been scheduled for Friday, May 9, 2025, at his home in Homa Bay County, as investigations into his tragic murder continue.
“The Requiem mass will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, hopefully at the Holy Family Basilica. On Thursday, following the requiem mass, we will transport the body home, and the body will be flown to Kabunde Airstrip in Homa Bay before the body is transported to his home for the final rites,” the Funeral Committee, Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma confirmed.
