‘Targeted and Premeditated’: Police Issue First Detailed Account of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were’s Murder
Kenya is in mourning following the cold-blooded killing of Kasipul Member of Parliament (MP) Charles Ong’ondo Were, who was fatally shot in a brazen ambush at a Nairobi traffic stop. In its first comprehensive briefing on the case, the National Police Service (NPS) described the killing as both targeted and premeditated, sparking national outrage and a full-scale investigation.
According to a statement released by the NPS on the evening of Wednesday, April 30, the assassination occurred around 7:30 p.m. as Mr. Were was driving along Ngong Road in a white Toyota Crown. The MP had halted at a red traffic light near the City Mortuary roundabout when two assailants on a motorcycle pulled up alongside his car.
“Eyewitnesses reported that a motorcycle with a rider and a passenger stopped beside the MP’s vehicle,” the police revealed. “The pillion passenger disembarked, walked up to the car, and fired several shots at the front passenger before jumping back onto the motorcycle. The suspects then fled the scene at high speed.”
Startled but unharmed, the vehicle’s driver and another male passenger acted immediately. They rushed the injured legislator to Nairobi Hospital in a desperate bid to save his life. However, doctors pronounced him dead on arrival. Hospital staff later confirmed the identity of the deceased as Charles Ong’ondo Were, the sitting MP for Kasipul.
In their official statement, police emphasized the deliberate nature of the act. “Initial findings indicate that the murder was not random,” the NPS stated. “This was a calculated, targeted attack executed with precision.”
The gravity of the crime has prompted swift action from law enforcement agencies. Senior commanders and forensic detectives quickly secured the crime scene and launched a coordinated probe to uncover the motive, trace the suspects, and understand how such a high-profile figure was gunned down in a public space.
Despite growing public concern and speculation, authorities cautioned against rushing to conclusions. “It is too early to release additional details,” police noted, “but we want to assure Kenyans that no stone will be left unturned in pursuing those responsible.”
The murder has sent shockwaves across the political landscape and beyond. In a strongly worded condemnation, the NPS described the act as “heinous and senseless,” adding, “We send our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, colleagues, and constituents of Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were.”
Authorities have urged members of the public with any information to come forward. “We appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to report to the nearest police station,” the statement read. Citizens can also contact the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) through the toll-free number 0800 722 203.
The shocking nature of the assassination has left many citizens deeply unsettled. “This is more than just a political tragedy,” remarked a Nairobi resident. “If a sitting MP can be killed like this, what does that say about the rest of us?”
The impact of Mr. Were’s death has rippled through Parliament as well. Tributes from fellow lawmakers and party members continue to pour in. Many have remembered him as a principled leader devoted to his constituency, while others have demanded immediate reforms to enhance the safety of public officials.
Security analysts say the method of the assassination—using a motorcycle for a quick escape and striking at a red light—points to a well-planned execution. “This is the hallmark of an organized hit,” one retired security officer commented. “It’s designed to leave minimal evidence and cause maximum impact.”
Public concern is mounting as many question how such a plot could unfold without detection. Calls for improved urban surveillance, stronger protection for elected officials, and increased police visibility in Nairobi have grown louder in the wake of the tragedy.
While detectives continue to review CCTV footage, interview witnesses, and analyze ballistic evidence, the nation waits anxiously for answers. The stakes are high—not only for justice to be served but also for public trust in law enforcement to be upheld.
As Kenya reflects on the life and service of Charles Ong’ondo Were, many are left grappling with the brutal reality of his death. A man once known for his public service has now become a symbol of the nation’s urgent need to confront rising insecurity.
The days ahead are expected to bring more updates as the investigation unfolds. For now, the country watches closely, hoping that truth, justice, and accountability will soon follow this tragic loss.
In Other News: MP Lilian Gogo Sheds Light on Possible Motive in Ex-Kasipul MP Charles Were Ong’ondo’s Murder
‘Targeted and Premeditated’: Police Issue First Detailed Account of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were’s Murder
