Police in Kisumu have arrested three suspects linked to the assault on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, as investigations intensify to identify and apprehend more individuals believed to have been involved in the attack.
The suspects in custody have been identified as Carlos Owiti, alias Kalonje (24), Eric Otieno, alias Dude (390, and Vincent Odhiambo, alias Tinga (27). Another suspect, Lucas Otieno, alias Dogo, remains at large but has been positively identified by detectives.
‘Tinga’ is alleged to be the individual captured in widely circulated CCTV footage wearing a white hoodie, while ‘Dogo’ is believed to have led the group to the table where the senator was seated moments before the attack.
“We have made progress in the case by arresting three suspects, who are now being processed for court. Investigations have been intensified, with detectives actively pursuing additional suspects linked to the incident,” said Nyanza Regional Police Commander Gisiri Nyamohanga.
She attributed the arrests to information provided by members of the public and appealed for continued cooperation as investigations proceed.
“Through the processing, we hope to uncover the motive behind the attack. In the meantime, we are already making plans to arraign them on Friday,” she said.
The arrests come a day after the senator was attacked at a coffee shop in Kisumu shortly after visiting a barber. CCTV footage shows a group of assailants confronting and assaulting him for several minutes before fleeing the scene.
Osotsi was initially treated at Aga Khan Hospital in Kisumu before being airlifted to Karen Hospital in Nairobi for specialised care.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, with leaders across the political divide calling swift action and accountability. Siaya Governor James Orengo criticised the handling of the case, alleging interference in the investigations.
“There appears to be an unseen hand restraining the police from handling this as a straightforward investigation, yet the majority of these involved are well known; even their residences and past acts of violence are documented. This is unacceptable,” he said.
Opposition leaders, including Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, also condemned the attack, linking it to a broader pattern of rising political violence and insecurity.
Meanwhile, protests erupted in parts of Vihiga County, where supporters of the senator blocked sections of the Kisumu-Busia Highway, demanding justice and swift prosecution of those responsible.
Police say efforts are ongoing to trace the remaining suspects as pressure mounts to bring all those involved in the attack to justice.
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