The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) announced it had launched investigations into a tragic incident of mob injustice that claimed the life of a man during a political rally in Mbale Town, Vihiga County.
According to the DCI, the incident occurred on February 21, 2026, at around noon, resulting in the death of George Olande Otobe, also known as Omundu.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Otobe allegedly stabbed Hussein Hassan in the head following an altercation at the rally. The incident reportedly triggered an angry reaction from bystanders, who turned on Otobe and subjected him to mob violence, leading to his death.
A knife believed to have been used in the attack was recovered from the scene.
Otobe’s body was initially taken to the Vihiga County Referral Hospital mortuary, where a postmortem examination established that he died from multiple severe head injuries consistent with mob assault.
The body was later transferred to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital mortuary for preservation.
Identification documents show that the deceased was a resident of Kisumu County and worked as a boda boda rider.
The incident occurred in the vicinity of the Linda Mwananchi rally held in Kakamega on the same day.
While the Constitution of Kenya guarantees the right to assemble, demonstrate and present petitions under Article 37, the DCI emphasized that this right is strictly limited to peaceful and unarmed gatherings.
Investigators have further revealed that some rally organisers allegedly armed their supporters, contrary to constitutional provisions and the principles of peaceful assembly.
The DCI warned that organisers of political events bear responsibility for ensuring their supporters remain unarmed and conduct themselves peacefully to prevent violence and loss of life.
The agency extended condolences to the family and friends of the late Otobe and wished Hussein Hassan a speedy recovery.
The DCI also commended officers deployed at the scene for exercising restraint in what it described as a highly volatile situation, preventing further escalation.
Authorities have assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that all those found culpable — whether for the mob killing or related offences, including arming supporters — will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Members of the public with information that could assist in the investigations have been urged to contact the DCI through its toll-free line 0800 722 203, WhatsApp 0709 570 000, or report to the nearest police station.
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