Five questioned over Homa Bay county executive murder

County transport executive nominee Donny Opar was shot dead by three armed gunmen at his petrol station in Kendu Bay town on Friday night. [Courtesy]

Police in Homa Bay County are questioning five people in connection with murder of County executive nominee, Philemon Donny Opar.

The five include those who were with the late Opar moments before his death on Friday night.

County police boss Esther Seroney said the five were being interrogated to enable them get leads in arresting the real suspects.

“We are grilling five people who interacted with the deceased in one way or the other before he was killed. We expect them to divulge information which will enable us get important leads towards the real suspects,” said Seroney.

The police boss said officers are on the ground conducting investigations to aid apprehension of the murder suspects.

She urged the public to be free with police in sharing information regarding killing.

Seroney assured members of the public that any information given to police will be used to ensure the bereaved family gets justice.

“Homa Bay residents should not fear. My office is open to receive any crucial information regarding this incident and such information will be treated with due confidentiality,” she added.

Opar was shot dead by three armed gunmen at his petrol station in Kendu Bay town on Friday night.

He was shot on the abdomen while compiling financial records of cash from daily sale of at the station.

Leaders have continued to send their messages of condolence to the bereaved family.

Deputy Governor Hamilton Orata, County Secretary Isaiah Ogwe, Rangwe MP Lilian Gogo and the county internal auditor Julius Polo, Karachuonyo MP Adipo Okuome, area MCA Peter Kaula and the county Bunge la Wenye Nchi Coordinator Okano Nyasanga called for investigations into the matter.

“I call on the investigative agencies to probe the matter and take action against the culprits,” Orata said.

Dr Gogo said it was immoral and illegal to murder an innocent citizen.

The MP who spoke in her constituency during verification of bursary forms said murder can never be a solution to any differences.

“Homa Bay residents have been very peaceful. I want to tell criminals to keep off this county,” Dr Gogo said.

Opar was approved by the County Assembly for the executive position in early April. 

However, he was yet to take oath of office because Governor Cyprian Awiti who was to preside over the swearing-in ceremony has been away on medical grounds.