The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kenya has confirmed that Rose Mbithe, already in police custody for the murder of Dr. Victoria Nthunya Mutiso, has been linked to the killing of lawyer Matthew Kyalo Mbobu. According to the DCI, investigations have established that Inspector Kenneth Sang, who is still at large, allegedly coordinated the operation in liaison with Mbithe. This development comes nearly a year after Mbobu's killing, which had remained unresolved.
Mbobu was fatally shot along Magadi Road, Nairobi, on September 9, 2025, while driving home from work. Parliamentary records previously indicated that he was shot eight times by an attacker on a motorcycle. The DCI says detectives have arrested Police Constable Julius Cheruiyot, whom they suspect was the gunman. Cheruiyot remains in custody as detectives process him ahead of his arraignment in court.
The DCI also says detectives recovered a Ceska pistol allegedly issued to Cheruiyot, and ballistic examination has reportedly confirmed that the firearm was used in the shooting. This evidence has strengthened the case against Cheruiyot and Mbithe. The DCI says investigations into Mbobu's killing remain active, with detectives pursuing additional leads on the alleged motive, planning, and execution of the murder.
Mbithe is already being held in connection with the July 29, 2026, killing of Dr. Mutiso in Upper Hill, Nairobi. The DCI's latest findings suggest a possible connection between the two murders, with Inspector Sang allegedly playing a key role in coordinating the operations. Sang is still at large, and detectives are working to apprehend him.
The development has brought some relief to Mbobu's family, who had continued to call for intensified investigations and answers over his death. The case had garnered significant attention, with many Kenyans demanding justice for the slain lawyer. The DCI's confirmation of Mbithe's involvement is a significant breakthrough in the case.
The DCI says detectives are making progress in the investigations, but more work remains to be done. The agency is pursuing additional leads and gathering evidence to build a strong case against all suspects involved. The arrest of Cheruiyot and the recovery of the Ceska pistol are significant milestones in the investigation.
The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in Kenya in addressing high-profile murders. The DCI's efforts to resolve the case have been commended by many, but the agency still faces pressure to bring all suspects to justice. The investigations into Mbobu's killing are ongoing, with the DCI working to uncover the full extent of the plot and bring those responsible to account.
Key points
- Rose Mbithe, already in custody for another murder, has been linked to the killing of lawyer Matthew Kyalo Mbobu.
- Police Constable Julius Cheruiyot has been arrested as the suspect gunman in the Mbobu murder case.
- Inspector Kenneth Sang, who allegedly coordinated the operation, remains at large.
