Governor’s bodyguard killed by boda boda riders laid to rest

Embu Governor Martin Wambora's bodyguard laid to rest at his home in Kivwe village in the county. [Photo, Standard]

Embu Governor Martin Wambora's bodyguard who was beaten to death by boda boda riders on the eve of Christmas Day was laid to rest at his home in Kivwe village in the county.

Wambora led other mourners in condemning the murder of Christopher Njue, 44, and called for speedy investigations.

Njue who left behind a widow and three children was a county enforcement officer enlisted to the governor’s security detail.

Enforcement officers in their brown uniforms were the pall bearers during the burial.

Wambora ordered that all boda boda operators in the county must register into Saccos before the end of the month to instill discipline and weed out criminals masquerading as boda boda riders.

He said the riders must adhere to rules and regulation in operating their business.

“The officers registering the boda boda operators should carry out due diligence and ensure that only those who meet legal requirements are registered to weed out the criminals in boda boda business,” he said.

Wambora said the Directorate of Criminal Investigation in Embu County is investigating.

His Deputy David Kariuki appealed to the residents to remain calm and await the investigation report.

One suspect was arrested and arraigned in court last week.

Embu Resident Magistrate Juliana Ndengeri allowed police to continue holding boda boda rider Samuel Ndwiga for 10 more days to aid investigations.

The prosecution led by Vincent Kongo told the court Ndwiga was arrested near the scene where Njue was assaulted after a dispute ensued with a boda boda operator over money.

He said the suspect could have vital information that could help the police in the murder probe.

Njue was rescued by administration police officers who took him to hospital where he succumbed to injuries.

According to Opiyo, the scene had three blood-stained wooden poles which were recovered and retained as exhibits.