Family of Kitengela shooting victim vows to delay burial until suspects are arrested

The family of the late Kevin Maseri, one of the Kitengela shooting victims, has said it will not bury him until those involved in the murder are arrested and prosecuted.

Speaking after witnessing an autopsy which confirmed that his death was the result of gunshot wounds, the family urged DCI boss Mohammed Amin to intervene and ensure the case gets the attention it deserves from authorities.

At Kitengela Sub-County Hospital Funeral Home, the late Maseri's family members, IPOA officials, DCI officers, political leaders, and activists gathered for the postmortem examination a day after he passed on.

For about two hours, the team was in the autopsy room, where pathologist Dr. Kamotho Watenga led the exercise. When they emerged, the results confirmed their fears: Kevin died as a result of injuries sustained after he was shot at close range.

"According to the doctor, the person who shot him fired at close range. The bullet entered and exited, affecting his intestines, liver, pancreas, and kidneys, and caused a severe infection,” said family lawyer Daniel Kanchori.

The autopsy also revealed that Kevin was shot twice; the other bullet hit his head and cracked his scalp.

With the findings out, the family says they will not commence burial plans until those accused of shooting him are arrested and prosecuted.

"We now want to see that action is taken. The bullet samples have been collected, and this matter should reach court by Monday; otherwise, justice will not be served,” Kanchori said.

Paul Maseri, Kevin's brother, added, "He was 32, with four children and a wife. It is going to be a very long journey going forward. It's very unfortunate."

The deceased was in the company of his cousin, Joseph Musondu, when a disagreement with other revellers, including police officers at a club in Kitengela, turned deadly—a matter that leaders and activists in the area want thoroughly probed.

"I ask the government to ensure that justice has been served to our people. I want my people to see that justice has been done and that all those responsible are held accountable,” said Kajiado East MP Kakuta Maimai.

An activist, Jamil Longton, added, "We request Director Mohammed Amin to ensure his officers are brought to court by Monday next week."

Police say they have in custody three pistols allegedly used at the scene. Ten people have also recorded statements regarding the incident, which has sent shockwaves through Kitengela, Kajiado County.