DCI Arrests Three Suspects Linked to Attack on Senator Godfrey Osotsi in Kisumu
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kisumu have arrested three suspects linked to the brutal attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi.
The arrests were made on Thursday, April 9, 2026, following intelligence-led operations and helpful tips from members of the public. The suspects have been identified as Carlos Owiti alias Kalonje (24) and Vincent Odhiambo alias Tinga (27), both from Nyalenda, and Eric Otieno alias Dude (39) from Manyatta. They are currently in police custody and are being processed ahead of their arraignment in court.
The attack took place on Wednesday evening at Java House restaurant inside West End Mall in Kisumu. Senator Osotsi had gone for a routine haircut in the Acacia area before proceeding to the restaurant, where he met a friend and interacted briefly with members of the public. A group of young men then confronted him, questioning his political views, before pinning him down and assaulting him. His security team chose not to use their weapons to avoid harming innocent bystanders. The senator sustained injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in Nairobi for further treatment. He has since described the incident as a politically motivated assassination attempt.
The DCI has praised the public for providing useful information that helped in the arrests. In a statement, the agency said it will continue with heightened investigations to ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice. Detectives are also carrying out forensic analysis of CCTV footage from the scene to gather more evidence and identify any additional suspects. The agency urged Kenyans to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified rumours, and continue cooperating with investigators.
This swift action by the DCI comes amid widespread condemnation of the attack from political leaders across the country. Many have called for a thorough probe to establish the full motive behind the assault. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of public officials and the need for peaceful political engagement. As investigations proceed, the three suspects remain in custody while the search for others involved continues.
