Wamuzi News Ke
In a case that underscores serious lapses in security amid high-profile events, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has announced the identities of four suspects allegedly involved in the theft of a firearm from a security officer during the funeral of the late Raila Odinga.
The Incident
The weapon, a Jericho pistol serial number 40309458 loaded with 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition, belonged to a General Service Unit (GSU) officer assigned to the VIP protection of Fernandes Barasa, Governor of Kakamega. The theft occurred on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at the grounds of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo Town, Siaya County while the governor was exiting the venue.
According to official records, the officer was escorting the governor through the university’s main gate when a mob of mourners closed in around the convoy. A group of individuals is alleged to have seized the opportunity amidst the chaos and forcibly removed the firearm from its holster before fleeing into the crowd.
Suspects Identified
Investigators say they traced the suspects to a residence in the Manyatta “B” slums in Kisumu following a public tip-off. The quartet is now detained at Kasagam Police Station in Kisumu and awaits arraignment.
The suspects are named as:
- Timothy Odhiambo
- David Beckham Odhiambo
- Tony Blair Omondi
- Harun Ibrahim
Why This Is So Troubling
The incident exposes a serious breach in security protocols at an event attended by some of Kenya’s most influential political figures. Critics argue that the ease with which the firearm was taken points to inadequate crowd control, poor protection for VIP convoys, and systemic vulnerabilities in event security management.
From a national security standpoint, the theft of a loaded firearm at an official event raises alarm bells: such weapons falling into the wrong hands amplify the risk of violence, unsanctioned use of force, and undermining public confidence in law enforcement.
What Happens Next
- The DCI has pledged to intensify efforts to recover the firearm and bring all involved parties to justice.
- Internal reviews are expected within the GSU and other security agencies to clarify how the breach occurred and who will bear responsibility.
- Government officials are under pressure to issue a full security assessment for major public events, particularly those involving political heavyweights.
- The suspects will face charges of theft of a firearm, and potentially additional counts relating to disrupting public order or aiding a criminal act during an official event.
