The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has linked the murder of PCEA cleric Rev. Julius Ndumia Ngari in Nakuru to a notorious armed gang previously profiled by detectives in 2022.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the DCI said sustained forensic and intelligence-led investigations had firmly connected the gang to the killing, which occurred on the night of May 3, 2026, at PCEA Tabuga Church in Nakuru North Sub-County.
According to investigators, the criminal group is known for carrying out violent armed robberies while disguised in security forces attire and using an L1A1 firearm. Detectives noted that the firearm in question had earlier been recovered by police in 2024.
The agency further revealed that the same gang has been linked to a violent robbery that occurred on May 1, 2026, during which Ksh600,000 was allegedly transferred from a victim’s bank account to mobile numbers associated with the suspects.
Detectives are also pursuing leads into a series of violent attacks and robberies reported across Nakuru County and surrounding areas, with authorities suspecting the same gang could be behind several incidents.
The DCI said advanced forensic examinations and scientific analysis aimed at placing the suspects at the crime scene are still ongoing as investigators work to build a strong case for prosecution.
The agency urged members of the public to remain calm, avoid speculation, and continue cooperating with investigators by sharing any information that may assist in the probe.
The DCI’s statement comes amid growing calls for justice over the unfortunate incident, with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua among leaders demanding answers.
Speaking during the burial of Rev. Ngari on Monday, Gachagua accused security officers in Nakuru of failing to contain rising crime in the region, saying residents had repeatedly raised concerns over insecurity.
He also questioned what he described as silence from senior security officials following the killing, and urged the DCI to release CCTV footage believed to have captured the cleric’s final moments, including the reported break-in at the church.
The former Deputy President also asked the Interior Ministry to assure members of the clergy of their safety, arguing that the killing was not an isolated incident.
