Kenyan authorities have made a significant breakthrough in the murder case of prominent lawyer Mathew Kyalo Mbobu. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) announced on September 24, 2026, that they have arrested Police Constable Julius Cheruiyot in connection with the killing. Mbobu was shot dead on September 9, 2025, along Magadi Road in Nairobi. According to the DCI, Cheruiyot is suspected of being the gunman behind the murder.
The DCI disclosed that ballistics confirmed the murder weapon was Cheruiyot's own service pistol, a Ceska pistol that had been officially issued to him. Detectives also recovered the firearm, which has been tied directly to the crime. The arrest comes after an intensive, painstaking investigation that lasted over a year. The DCI described the case as a priority and assured the public that they would pursue everyone suspected of involvement in the murder.
The investigation has not stopped at Cheruiyot, as detectives allege that Inspector Kenneth Sang, who remains at large, coordinated the operation together with Rose Mbithe. Mbithe is currently in custody over the murder of Dr. Victoria Nthunya Mutiso, who was shot dead on July 29, 2026, in Upper Hill, Nairobi. The alleged link between the two officers and Mbithe raises fresh questions over whether the two killings, months apart, are connected.
Following Mbobu's death, the DCI's Homicide Directorate teamed up with forensic experts to reconstruct exactly what happened on Magadi Road that day. The team analyzed evidence and gathered intelligence to identify the suspects. Cheruiyot remains in custody, undergoing processing ahead of his arraignment in court. The DCI affirmed its commitment to pursuing everyone suspected of involvement in the murder, "regardless of their position or affiliation."
Mbobu's murder was a suspected targeted attack, as he was shot dead while driving home from work. The killing sent shockwaves through the legal community, with many lawyers and advocates calling for swift action to be taken. The DCI's progress in the case has been welcomed by the public, who are eager to see justice served.
The arrest of Cheruiyot and the recovery of the murder weapon mark a significant milestone in the investigation. The DCI will continue to investigate and gather evidence, with the goal of bringing all suspects to justice. The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in Kenya and the need for continued efforts to combat crime and ensure public safety.
Key points
- Police Constable Julius Cheruiyot arrested in connection with lawyer Mathew Kyalo Mbobu's murder
- Ballistics confirmed the murder weapon was Cheruiyot's own service pistol
- Investigation ongoing, with detectives pursuing additional leads to establish the full picture behind Mbobu's murder
