Businessman and political aspirant Philip Nahashon Aroko has turned himself in to the police following a public notice by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), naming him a person of interest in the assassination of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were.
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Aroko Says He Was Not Hiding
Appearing at Gigiri Police Station alongside his lawyer, Danstan Omari, Aroko insisted he had no involvement in the April 30 shooting of MP Were near City Mortuary in Nairobi.
“I have just seen on X that I am wanted. I was not hiding. I am a law-abiding citizen. I have nothing to do with the death of the MP,” Aroko told reporters. His lawyer dismissed the investigation as politically motivated, calling it a “witch-hunt.”
DCI Urges Public to Share Information
DCI had earlier released an urgent alert, describing Aroko as a key figure in the ongoing murder investigation and ordered him to present himself at the nearest police station without delay. The public was urged to report tips through 999, 112, or #FichuaKwaDCI (0800 722 203), promising confidentiality.
2027 Political Ambitions Under Scrutiny
Aroko, a known political figure in Homa Bay County, had expressed interest in contesting the Kasipul parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election. The seat was previously held by the late MP Were, raising further speculation about potential motives.
Old social media endorsements from residents supporting Aroko’s political bid have resurfaced, adding fuel to the ongoing investigation.
Past Criminal Allegations Resurface
Aroko’s name has previously been linked to major fraud cases, notably fake gold scams. In 2018, he was charged alongside businessman Jared Otieno for allegedly defrauding a foreign investor, Samir Entoro, of Sh23 million under the pretext of exporting gold to Dubai.
He was also arrested in a separate Sh300 million gold scam in Kileleshwa, again with ties to Otieno. Despite denying involvement and claiming to be a driver, court testimonies painted him as a central player in the operations.
Ongoing Investigations
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen earlier indicated that individuals close to the late MP were being probed, with six suspects already in custody and more arrests expected. Aroko’s surrender now adds a significant layer to the unfolding investigation.
As the probe continues, questions remain about whether political rivalry or past criminal dealings may have influenced the tragic killing of MP Charles Ong’ondo Were.
Related: Ongoing Updates on the MP Were Murder Investigation
