Popular Kenyan musician and police officer Samuel Muchoki, widely known as Samidoh, is facing arrest over allegations of deserting his duty in the police service. The National Police Service (NPS) has reported that Samidoh has been absent from his designated post since May 27, 2025, following his redeployment to the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Gilgil.
According to official police statements, Samidoh was granted official annual leave and was expected to resume his duties on May 27, 2025. However, he failed to report back, and efforts to locate him have been unsuccessful. The police confirmed that since his absence has exceeded ten days without any official leave or explanation, he is now classified as a deserter effective from June 6, 2025.
The NPS has further recommended disciplinary action against Samidoh and has withheld his salary due to his prolonged absence. Reports indicate that the musician is currently believed to be in the United States on a musical tour. However, this international trip is alleged to have been undertaken without the necessary formal clearance from the police service.
The police report from the ASTU commandant emphasizes that Samidoh’s failure to return to his assigned duty post constitutes a breach of the National Police Service Act. According to Chapter 84 of the Act (Revised 2014), any police officer who fails to report for duty for more than ten days without valid leave is deemed to have deserted the service, an offense that carries serious consequences.
This development comes amid controversy following one of Samidoh’s recent performances, where attendees were captured chanting anti-government slogans. In the video, the crowd could be heard chanting the term “Wantam,” a phrase widely interpreted as a call to limit President William Ruto to a single term in office. Samidoh was seen encouraging the crowd’s chant during the performance.
Senior commanders within the police service have reportedly viewed Samidoh’s actions during the event as a violation of the Service Standing Orders (SSO). This has further complicated his situation within the police force and added to the scrutiny of his conduct both as an officer and a public figure.
The National Police Service remains firm in enforcing its regulations and has underscored that desertion of duty is a serious offense that undermines discipline within the force. The case of Samidoh serves as a reminder that all police officers, regardless of their public status, are expected to adhere strictly to the rules governing their service. Disciplinary measures, including arrest and possible prosecution, are being pursued to address this breach.
