The mysterious disappearance of fisherman Brian Odhiambo from Nakuru, who vanished while in the custody of Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers in January, has taken a new twist. Family members of the missing man have accused KWS officials of intentionally delaying the implementation of a court order to search for his body within Lake Nakuru National Park.
After receiving a crucial lead suggesting that Odhiambo’s body may have been buried inside the park, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) sought a court order to begin a thorough search for suspected grave sites. The case has been ongoing for nine months without clear answers, and the family is growing frustrated with the slow pace of the search.
The court order, granted by Nakuru Senior Principal Magistrate Cynthia Muhoro, allows investigators to search the park for potential burial sites and, if found, immediately proceed with exhumation. The exhumed body would undergo DNA testing and toxicology analysis to gather more information about the cause of death and any possible foul play. Homicide detectives are to assist with the process, ensuring that proper protocols are followed.
Family lawyer Abuya Mogendi has expressed concerns over the delays, urging the authorities to speed up the investigation. He emphasized the risk of compromising vital evidence if the search is not expedited, warning that those behind Odhiambo’s disappearance might be able to cover up the crime if the investigation is further stalled.
The investigation has also implicated six KWS officers, who have been charged with abduction with intent to confine. They have denied the charges, and the case remains in the courts. Thirteen witnesses have testified so far, and the lead investigative officer is expected to provide further details when the hearing resumes in November.
As the investigation continues, Odhiambo’s family remains hopeful that the search will eventually bring them the closure they desperately need. The area where the body may be buried has been identified near the main entry point to Lake Nakuru National Park. The next phase of the investigation will be crucial in determining the truth behind his disappearance and the actions of those responsible.
