The Directorate of Criminal Investigations probe linked the murder of Nakuru PCEA cleric Reverend Julius Ndumia Ngari to a notorious armed criminal gang previously profiled in 2022 and known for carrying out violent robberies while disguised in security forces uniforms.
According to investigators, the gang is suspected to have fatally attacked Rev. Ngari on the night of May 3, 2026, at PCEA Tabuga Church in Nakuru North Sub-County.
Detectives say the group used a LIAi firearm that had earlier been recovered by police in 2024.
The same gang has also been connected to a violent robbery on May 1, 2026, in which Sh600,000 was allegedly transferred from a victim’s bank account to mobile numbers associated with the suspects.
“Through sustained forensic and intelligence-driven investigations, detectives have firmly linked the incident to a notorious criminal gang first profiled in July 2022.”
“The gang is known for carrying out violent armed robberies using an LIAi firearm while disguised in security forces attire. The firearm in question was recovered by police in 2024,” a statement said.
The DCI said ongoing investigations are examining a wider pattern of violent robberies and attacks across Nakuru County and nearby areas, with detectives suspecting the same group may be responsible for several incidents.
Investigators are conducting advanced forensic and scientific analyses aimed at placing suspects at the crime scene and strengthening the prosecution case.
The agency said further updates will be issued as investigations continue and urged members of the public to remain calm, avoid speculation, and cooperate with authorities by sharing any relevant information. Two suspects accused of killing of a PCEA cleric in Nakuru County will remain in police custody for 21 days as investigators pursue more accomplices and the circumstances surrounding the fatal church attack continue.
Beryl Nafula Otenyo and Felix Odinga Okumu, who are linked to the murder of Reverend Julius Ndumia, were presented before court on Monday May 11 where detectives sought additional time to complete inquiries, citing ongoing forensic work and witness statements tied to the incident.
The court granted the detention application, allowing officers to hold the two as the probe continues into the May 3 church raid in which the cleric was killed, with investigators also reviewing recovered items believed to be connected to the attack.
The matter is scheduled for mention on June 3, 2026 as police consolidate evidence ahead of possible further charges.
Detectives at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations said the arrests followed extensive forensic and intelligence-led investigations into the May 3, 2026 incident.
According to investigators, Reverend Ngari was killed during a violent attack at the church compound, while the church watchman sustained serious injuries and was admitted to hospital.
Detectives said the attackers broke into the church office and the reverend’s residence, making away with cash, mobile phones and other valuables.
Police believe the murder happened out of a robbery. Some of the suspects were later captured on security cameras while withdrawing cash from the deceased’s mobile phone.
They later shared the money among themselves.
At least three other suspects are being sought over the murder, police said.
Police said some of them wore what looked like police or military jungle uniforms.
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