DCI probes mob killing at Sifuna’s Mbale rally

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna with Siaya Governor James Orengo and other leaders during the rally in Mbale, Kakamega county on February 21, 2026./COURTESY

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched investigations into a mob justice incident that occurred on February 21, 2026, in Mbale Town, Vihiga County.

DCI said the incident happened at about noon during a political rally held by embattled ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, resulting in the death of George Olande Otobe, also known as Omundu.

According to preliminary findings, Otobe allegedly stabbed a resident in the head following an altercation, prompting bystanders to retaliate against him. The confrontation escalated into mob violence that led to Otobe’s death.

DCI said they recovered a knife at the scene and Otobe’s body was taken to Vihiga County Referral Hospital mortuary pending postmortem examination.

The DCI added the autopsy established the cause of death as multiple severe head injuries consistent with mob violence.

The body has since been transferred to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital mortuary for preservation.

Identification documents indicated the deceased was a resident of Kisumu County and worked as a boda boda rider.

The agency noted the incident occurred in the vicinity of the Linda Mwananchi rally held in Kakamega the same day.

While citing Article 37 of the Constitution, the DCI emphasised that the right to assemble, demonstrate, and picket is guaranteed only when participants remain peaceful and unarmed.

Preliminary investigations, the agency added, alleged organisers of the rally had armed some supporters, contrary to constitutional requirements on peaceful assembly.

The DCI called on organisers of political rallies and public gatherings to ensure their supporters remain unarmed and conduct themselves peacefully to prevent escalation into violence.

The agency also commended officers deployed at the scene for exercising restraint, saying their actions helped prevent further loss of life.

Investigations are ongoing, with the DCI warning that anyone found culpable, whether for the mob killing or related offenses, will face the full force of the law.

Kenyans have been urged to share any information that may assist investigations through the FichuaKwaDCI toll-free line 0800 722 203, WhatsApp number 0709 570 000, or by reporting to the nearest police station.

Several people were injured in Mbale, Vihiga, after police engaged youths in running battles at the Linda Mwananchi rally.

This follows a chaotic Kitengela rally where police fired tear gas at the crowd as Sifuna and other leaders were addressing the people.

The rally ended abruptly as leaders drove off while the crowds ran in different directions.

Boda boda riders and residents who had turned up for the rally were seen scampering for safety as the situation quickly became unmanageable.

Videos seen indicated that within minutes of the melee, people began fleeing in different directions, while others struggled to move away from the choking fumes.

In a statement released Monday, IPOA Vice Chairperson Ann Mwangi confirmed that a rapid response team of investigators has been deployed to Kajiado County.

“The Authority noted with great concern the loss of life and injuries during the Kitengela political rally, allegedly occurring as members of the National Police Service endeavored to maintain law and order,” the statement read.