Suspects Arrested in the Brutal Killing of IEBC Official

Kilifi County, Kenya — In a significant breakthrough, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested three suspects linked to the brutal murder of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) official Ms. Aisha Abubakar. The arrests come after an intensive seven-day manhunt following the tragic incident that occurred on January 5, 2025.

The suspects, identified as Isa Omari, Brian Shikuku Mudari, and Bryan Templer Oyare, were apprehended in coordinated operations across various locations in the coastal region. The DCI’s Operation Support Unit (OSU) and the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau worked tirelessly to track down the suspects, leading to the recovery of several crucial exhibits, including a stolen phone belonging to Ms. Abubakar’s son.

On the morning of the attack, Ms. Abubakar and her son were violently awakened around 3 a.m. by intruders who gained access to their home by cutting through the kitchen window grills. Armed with crude weapons, the assailants incapacitated her son before repeatedly stabbing Ms. Abubakar despite her desperate pleas for mercy. The attackers looted various valuables from the residence, including two Samsung phones, an iPad, a 65-inch television, a sound system, and ATM cards, whose PINs they forcibly obtained.

Neighbors, alarmed by the commotion, rushed to assist and transported Ms. Abubakar to Premier Hospital in Nyali. Tragically, she was declared dead upon arrival. The heinous crime shocked the community and sparked an outcry for swift justice.

The DCI Kisauni division took charge of the investigation, employing forensic analysis and intelligence-led operations to track the culprits. Their relentless efforts culminated in the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of stolen items, marking a crucial step in bringing justice to the victim and her family.

The suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue to unravel further details surrounding the crime. Authorities have assured the public that all involved parties will be held accountable.

Ms. Abubakar’s death has cast a somber mood over Kilifi County, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures. The IEBC and local leaders have expressed condolences to her family, calling for justice to be served swiftly.

The DCI has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens and bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice.

The investigation remains ongoing.