3 persons of interest arrested over murder of Mt Elgon politician Nathan Wasama

Three suspects have been apprehended by detectives probing the fatal shooting of former local politician Nathan Masai Wasama, according to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The 61-year-old businessman met his demise on August 8, 2026, at his shop in Tuikut Trading Centre, Sasur Location, Cheptais Sub-County. The DCI disclosed the arrests on Wednesday, August 12, as they pursued leads to uncover the motive behind the killing and identify all involved parties.

On the night of the incident, four men arrived at the trading centre on two motorcycles. One of the pillion passengers dismounted and entered Wasama's shop, where he allegedly shot him before fleeing with his accomplices. A woman was also wounded during the assault and remains hospitalized in stable condition.

Initial investigations pointed detectives to a suspect, who was later arrested following a search warrant raid at a residence in Marigo Village, Cheptais Location, on Tuesday, August 11. The three apprehended suspects are currently in police custody, awaiting arraignment and custodial orders to facilitate further probing of the case.

The DCI also recovered a variety of items during the operation, including a military-style smoke jacket, stun grenade, various axes, folding pangas, knives, arrows, and three motorcycles. Additionally, mobile phones and an iPod were seized. These recovered items will be scrutinized alongside other evidence to aid in reconstructing the events leading to Wasama's murder.

The investigation is ongoing, with the DCI actively pursuing additional leads and suspects. The killing of Wasama, who had a long history in the Mt Elgon region and was previously a councillor representing Sasuri Ward and involved in the Sabaot Land Defence Force (SLDF) conflict, has garnered significant attention. However, the DCI has not publicly linked his murder to his past political or historical associations. The investigation remains active, with detectives continuing to explore all potential avenues.