DCI arrest three over murder of Mt Elgon businessman Wasama

Police in Bungoma County have apprehended three individuals in connection with the murder of 61-year-old businessman Nathan Masai Wasama, who was shot dead on August 8, 2026, at his shop in Cheptais, Bungoma County. The victims, Wasama and a woman, were targeted while he was at his business in Tuikut Trading Centre, Sasur Location.

The attack began when four men arrived on two motorcycles and one of the passengers exited the vehicle to shoot Wasama before escaping with his accomplices. A woman was also shot during the incident and remains hospitalized in stable condition. The motive for the murder remains unknown at this time.

Following leads, detectives arrested a key suspect on August 11, 2026, at a residence in Marigo Village, Cheptais Location. They also conducted a search of the premises and recovered various items, including a military-style smoke jacket, stun grenade, axes, crowbar, folding pangas, knives, arrows, motorcycles, mobile phones, and an iPod. Two more suspects were detained and are being processed for arraignment.

The attack on Wasama comes weeks after he publicly announced his intention to run for the Mt Elgon parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Elections. This marks the second attempt on his life within a two-year period, with a previous attack in 2024 where gunmen fired several bullets at the rear of his vehicle, but he escaped unharmed.

Wasama, a former Chesikaki councillor and aspiring MP, was also a businessman, philanthropist, and an active Seventh-day Adventist Church member. His murder has sparked concerns over the security of political leaders and aspirants, especially as political activity ramps up ahead of the 2027 elections. The incident has also turned political, with various politicians commenting on the matter.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has cautioned the public against spreading unverified allegations that could prejudice the case or threaten public safety. The DCI urges anyone with credible information to report it to the nearest police station or through their toll-free hotline 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000.