by Bukeni AbdullatifCourt Fines Four for Attempted Smuggling of 5,000 Queen Ants at JKIA
Nairobi, May 8, 2025 —
In a rare and unusual case of wildlife trafficking, a Nairobi court has fined four individuals Ksh1 million each for attempting to smuggle more than 5,000 queen ants out of Kenya. The suspects—two Belgian and two Vietnamese nationals—were intercepted by customs officials at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) while attempting to board a flight to Southeast Asia.
Authorities said the suspects had concealed the ants in custom-made plastic containers and intended to export them illegally, violating Kenya’s Wildlife Conservation and Management Act. The insects, believed to be destined for underground ant-trading markets, were identified as highly valuable for use in exotic farming and as collectible species among insect enthusiasts abroad.
“The suspects failed to provide documentation for the insects and could not explain their intended purpose,” said a senior Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officer. “This highlights a growing trend in trafficking lesser-known species, not just the big game.”
The case has sparked conversation among conservationists about the increasing exploitation of invertebrate species in global illegal wildlife trade. Traditionally, enforcement in Kenya has focused on elephants, rhinos, and other high-profile species, but experts now warn that insects and other small fauna are also at risk of unsustainable exploitation.
Magistrate Beatrice Okwiri, who presided over the case, emphasized the seriousness of the offense. “The illegal removal of even the smallest creatures from our ecosystem can cause major disruptions to biodiversity. This court must send a message that all forms of wildlife trafficking will be punished.”
The queen ants were confiscated and handed over to the National Museums of Kenya for identification and possible reintroduction to their natural habitat.
Kasipul MP Murder Probe Intensifies as Bodyguard and Driver Arrested
Homa Bay, Kenya – May 8, 2025
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has made significant strides in the ongoing investigation into the murder of Kasipul Member of Parliament, Charles Ong’ondo Were. In a dramatic development, the DCI on Wednesday arrested both the late legislator’s bodyguard and driver, intensifying the probe into what is now being treated as a carefully orchestrated assassination.
Charles Ong’ondo Were, a second-term MP known for his vocal stance on governance and development issues in Homa Bay County, was fatally shot under mysterious circumstances last week, sparking widespread public outcry and calls for swift justice.
Sources within the investigative team confirmed that the arrests were made after inconsistencies emerged in initial statements provided by the two individuals, both of whom were reportedly with the MP at the time of the incident. “We are following up leads that suggest an inside job cannot be ruled out. For now, the two are assisting with investigations,” a senior DCI official stated.
Meanwhile, arrangements for the MP’s final journey are underway. His remains are expected to be airlifted today to Kabunde Airstrip in Homa Bay County. A series of vigils and tributes have been held in Nairobi and Kisumu in his honor, drawing crowds of supporters and political leaders.
The burial is scheduled for Friday in his ancestral home of Kachien, where thousands are expected to gather to pay their last respects to the fallen lawmaker.
National leaders, including fellow members of parliament and county officials, have urged the DCI to expedite the investigation and bring all those involved to justice. “We cannot afford to normalize political assassinations in our country. The truth must come out,” said Suba South MP, John Mbadi.
As investigations continue, the nation watches closely, hoping that justice will be served swiftly and transparently in one of the most high-profile political murder cases of the year.
Outrage as Viral Video Shows Police Officer Stepping on Civilian’s Neck
May 7, 2025 | Nairobi, Kenya
A disturbing video depicting a police officer stepping on a civilian’s neck has resurfaced online, sparking outrage across Kenya and renewing calls for greater accountability within the National Police Service (NPS).
The footage, which has gone viral on social media platforms, shows a uniformed officer kicking a man lying on the ground and forcefully stepping on his neck. The officer is seen wielding a baton and a firearm, while a small group of bystanders watch from a distance, visibly alarmed.
Police Respond to Viral Video
In response to public outcry, the National Police Service issued a statement confirming that the video is from a 2018 incident in Nairobi. According to the NPS, the officer involved was identified at the time, and disciplinary action was taken.
“This video, while deeply troubling, is not recent,” the statement read. “The officer in question was subjected to internal disciplinary processes, and appropriate measures were taken to ensure accountability.”
Despite the clarification, the incident has reignited public debate about police brutality, with many Kenyans questioning whether disciplinary actions taken in private are enough to deter future misconduct.
Public Demands Transparency and Justice
Human rights advocates and ordinary citizens alike have expressed frustration over what they describe as a pattern of impunity among law enforcement. Hashtags such as #EndPoliceBrutality and #JusticeForVictims have trended on Kenyan Twitter, as users called for the reopening of investigations and a public release of the disciplinary outcomes.
“We cannot continue to excuse violent behavior under the pretext of past action,” said Mary Atieno, a Nairobi-based human rights lawyer. “The public deserves full transparency and assurance that such acts will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
Ongoing Concerns About Police Conduct
This is not the first time Kenyan police have come under fire for excessive use of force. In recent months, reports of unlawful killings, harassment, and intimidation have surfaced in various parts of the country. A recent case in Narok County, where police officers allegedly killed five civilians during a land dispute protest, has further heightened concerns.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has called for a broader investigation into patterns of abuse and systemic issues within the police force.
“We must go beyond case-by-case responses and address the root causes of these recurring incidents,” said IPOA Chairperson Anne Makori. “That includes training, oversight, and a culture of respect for human rights.”
The Way Forward
While the NPS insists it is committed to upholding professionalism and respecting the rights of all Kenyans, critics argue that internal disciplinary systems lack credibility without public oversight.
Calls for reform include the creation of a civilian review board, mandatory body cameras for officers, and legislative action to enhance accountability mechanisms.
As Kenyans continue to demand justice and reform, the pressure is now on the government and security agencies to prove that accountability is more than just a promise—it is a practice.
Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were Assassinated in Nairobi
Nairobi, May 6, 2025 — Kenya is reeling from the assassination of Charles Ong’ondo Were, the Member of Parliament for Kasipul Constituency in Homa Bay County. The 51-year-old legislator was fatally shot on the evening of April 30 while his vehicle was stopped at a traffic light on Ngong Road in Nairobi. Police have described the incident as a “targeted and premeditated” attack.
According to eyewitness accounts, two assailants on a motorcycle approached Were’s car around 7:30 p.m. One of the attackers dismounted, walked to the passenger side, and opened fire before fleeing the scene. Were’s driver and bodyguard were unharmed and rushed him to Nairobi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
A postmortem examination conducted by Chief Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor revealed that Were was shot five times at close range, with bullets piercing vital organs including his heart, lungs, and liver. The cause of death was determined to be excessive bleeding.
The assassination has sent shockwaves through the nation, with President William Ruto condemning the killing and ordering a thorough investigation. Opposition leader Raila Odinga mourned Were as a “gallant son of the soil,” highlighting his dedication to public service.
In a significant development, four suspects, including a serving police officer, were arrested in connection with the murder. They were arraigned at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Law Courts and are being held for 30 days to allow police to complete investigations. Authorities have linked at least some of the suspects to the Mjahidin gang, a criminal group known for violent robberies in Nairobi’s Eastlands area.
Were had previously expressed concerns for his safety amid rising unrest in his constituency and hostility at public events. His death has raised concerns about the country’s political stability, especially given Kenya’s history of politically motivated violence.
Preparations are underway for Were’s requiem mass, as the nation mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant.
by derrick kayiiraPresident Ruto’s Motorcade Incident: British National Fatally Struck
Nairobi, Kenya – March 15, 2025 – A tragic road accident involving President William Ruto’s motorcade has left a 79-year-old British national, Edgar Charles Frederick, dead. The incident occurred in Nairobi as the presidential convoy was en route to a public engagement. 
According to eyewitnesses, the victim was attempting to cross a road when one of the vehicles in the motorcade struck him. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but Frederick succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The driver of the vehicle was immediately taken into custody and later released on bail as investigations continue
The British High Commission has been actively engaged in discussions with Kenyan authorities to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our citizen and are working closely with the Kenyan government to establish the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event,” a spokesperson for the British High Commission stated.
The Kenyan government has expressed condolences to the victim’s family and assured the public of a comprehensive review of the incident. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Mr. Frederick. The matter is under active investigation, and appropriate action will be taken,” said a spokesperson from the Office of the President.
This incident has sparked conversations about road safety, particularly regarding high-speed motorcades that often travel through congested areas. Advocacy groups are calling for stricter measures to ensure pedestrian safety, even when security convoys are in transit.
As the investigation unfolds, both governments continue to cooperate in handling the case sensitively and efficiently. More updates are expected as authorities piece together the full details of the tragic accident.
Arrests in Scottish Businessman’s Murder: Kenyan Authorities Detain Prime Suspects
Nairobi, Kenya – March 4, 2025
Kenyan law enforcement has made a breakthrough in the investigation into the tragic murder of Scottish businessman Campbell Scott. The primary suspect, Alex Mutua Kithuka, has been apprehended, alongside his alleged accomplice, Albinus Mutinda Nzioki. The two men are accused of orchestrating a sinister plot that led to Scott’s untimely demise.
The Crime Unfolds
According to preliminary investigations, Kithuka and Nzioki allegedly lured Scott to a residence in Nairobi under false pretenses. Once inside, they reportedly stole his belongings, leaving him defenseless. Authorities believe the suspects later transported his body to a remote forest, where it was eventually discovered.
Scott, a well-known businessman with ties to both Kenya and Scotland, had been residing in Nairobi for business purposes. His sudden disappearance prompted an intensive search operation, ultimately leading investigators to the suspects.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigations
The two suspects appeared in court earlier today, where they were remanded for 21 days as the police continue gathering evidence. Prosecutors have described the case as complex, requiring forensic analysis and witness testimonies before formal charges can be filed.
A spokesperson for the Kenyan police stated, “We are committed to ensuring justice is served. The suspects will remain in custody as our investigations progress.”
International Concerns and Family Reactions
Scott’s family in Scotland has expressed shock and grief over the incident. The UK Foreign Office has also been in communication with Kenyan authorities, offering support and monitoring the legal proceedings closely.
With investigations still ongoing, law enforcement urges anyone with further information regarding the case to come forward. More updates are expected as authorities delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding Scott’s murder.
Todonyang Attack: Kenyan and Ethiopian Authorities Launch Joint Search Operation
February 27, 2025
Kenyan and Ethiopian authorities have launched a joint search operation following a violent clash at the Omo River border that has left over 20 Kenyan fishermen missing. The incident, which occurred on February 26, has raised security concerns in the region, prompting immediate action from both governments.
Background of the Conflict
The Omo River, which serves as a natural boundary between Kenya and Ethiopia, has long been a site of tensions between communities dependent on fishing for their livelihoods. The latest confrontation involved armed groups from both sides, reportedly over fishing rights and territorial claims. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as gunfire erupted, forcing many fishermen to flee or seek refuge in the river’s dense vegetation.
Local leaders have called for urgent intervention to prevent further escalation, emphasizing that such conflicts have historically resulted in loss of life and economic setbacks for the affected communities.
Government Response
Following the incident, Kenyan Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki and his Ethiopian counterpart issued a joint statement condemning the violence and vowing to restore peace. Security teams from both nations have been deployed along the border to prevent further clashes while rescue and recovery missions are underway to locate the missing fishermen.
Authorities have also intensified surveillance in the area, with reports indicating that both military and police units are conducting coordinated patrols. Helicopters and drone technology have been employed to aid in search operations, given the challenging terrain of the region.
Humanitarian Concerns
Families of the missing fishermen have gathered in Todonyang, anxiously awaiting updates on their loved ones. Many have urged the government to provide support, including psychological counseling and financial aid, as they cope with the uncertainty.
Human rights organizations have also called for an independent investigation into the root causes of the violence, urging both governments to develop long-term solutions that address underlying socio-economic tensions rather than temporary security measures.
Call for Diplomatic Resolution
Regional leaders have emphasized the need for diplomatic dialogue between Kenyan and Ethiopian officials to establish clear fishing boundaries and conflict resolution mechanisms. Proposals have been made for a joint fisheries management plan that would regulate fishing activities and ensure sustainable use of the Omo River’s resources.
The African Union (AU) has been urged to mediate discussions between the two nations to prevent future outbreaks of violence. Additionally, cross-border development programs aimed at fostering economic cooperation are being considered as a long-term peace-building strategy.
Conclusion
The Todonyang attack highlights the fragile nature of cross-border relations in the region and the urgent need for sustainable conflict resolution measures. While the search for the missing fishermen continues, the incident serves as a reminder of the broader challenges facing communities living along disputed borders.
Both governments have pledged to work together in addressing the crisis, but whether these efforts will lead to lasting peace remains to be seen. In the meantime, families and local communities hold onto hope as they await news of their missing loved ones.
Man Arrested for Allegedly Killing Son and Attacking House Help in Kiambu
Kiambu, Kenya – February 26, 2025
Authorities in Kiambu County have arrested a man suspected of breaking into his lover’s house, killing her 8-year-old son, and attacking the household help in a brutal incident that has shocked the local community.
Incident Details and Ongoing Investigation
According to police reports, the suspect forcefully entered the home late in the night before carrying out the gruesome attack. The child was fatally stabbed, while the house help sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
Investigators are working to establish the motive behind the crime, with preliminary findings suggesting a domestic dispute may have escalated into violence. The suspect was apprehended shortly after the incident and remains in police custody awaiting formal charges.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents, with many calling for swift justice for the victims. Kiambu County law enforcement has assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to ensure justice is served.
“This is a tragic and disturbing case. We are committed to ensuring that the suspect is held accountable for his actions,” stated a police spokesperson.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Authorities are in the process of preparing formal charges against the suspect, who is expected to face murder and assault charges. The case will be presented in court in the coming days as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, support services have been offered to the grieving family and the injured house help, with counseling services being arranged for those affected by the tragedy.
Conclusion
The shocking attack in Kiambu has raised concerns over rising cases of domestic violence and family-related crimes. As the legal process unfolds, the community hopes for swift justice and increased measures to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.
