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Philip Aroko, a businessman linked to the murder of Kasipul MP Charles Were, was re-arrested on Monday following the cancellation of his bail by a Kibera court.
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Aroko had earlier been released on a cash bail of Sh300,000 by the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Law Courts, where Principal Magistrate Irene Gichobi imposed strict conditions.
These included surrendering his passport, avoiding travel to Homa Bay County—where the late MP hailed from—and refraining from contacting any co-accused, the victim’s family, or witnesses. He was also barred from interfering with evidence and required to report regularly to investigating officers.
However, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) challenged his release, citing ongoing investigations and public interest in the case. The prosecution’s appeal was successful, and the court ordered Aroko’s immediate detention at Kileleshwa Police Station for seven days to allow further inquiries.
According to an affidavit sworn by Inspector Oliver Nabonwe, Aroko recently gave investigators new information that needs thorough examination before formal charges can be considered. The authorities are also awaiting a cybercrime and forensic report from the National Forensic Laboratory, which is essential for further interrogation.
In addition, a financial report from the Financial Reporting Centre is still pending and expected to provide insights into the financial aspects of the case. The prosecution emphasized that new witnesses have been identified following the interrogation of other suspects, and their statements are yet to be recorded—some of them being in Homa Bay County.
Investigators are also analyzing call data from the deceased, Aroko, and other suspects as part of the probe. The prosecution stated that preliminary findings indicate Aroko, in collaboration with others already in custody, is potentially connected to the murder of Hon. Charles Ong’ondo Were and could face murder charges once investigations are finalized.
MP Were was fatally shot on April 30, 2025, along Valley Road in Nairobi. So far, 12 individuals have been arrested in connection with the killing, including the alleged shooter, and the murder weapon has been recovered.
