Police arrest a suspected serial killer in Kisumu

Police in Kisumu have arrested a suspected serial killer linked to three murders and dumping bodies of his victims in a pit latrine.  

Speaking while confirming the arrest, Nyando OCPD Leonard Matete said Bernard Ouko was arrested in Asembo bay in Siaya where he was hiding after a tip-off from members of the public.

In September last year, police launched a manhunt of the suspect after three decomposing bodies were retrieved from a shallow pit latrine in his compound in Awasi area.

But on Thursday, the suspect was spotted at a funeral in Asembo bay, when members of the public reported the matter to the area assistant chief who then alerted officials at Aram Police Station.

“We coordinated with the police in Aram and the suspect was arrested. We are now going after his suspected accomplice,” Matete said.

Police reports indicate that before the incident that led to his hiding, the suspect had been released from Kodiaga Prison where he was sentenced to rape and robbery with violence.

Nyando Police boss said the decomposing bodies were found with multiple bruises. The hands of his latest victim were tied together and general body folded- an indication that he was killed with blunt objects.

The family of his last victim Stephen Onyango, 35, told The Standard that the deceased was last seen with the suspect.

The raged villagers set fire on two houses belonging to the suspect who has since been on the run.

Close to the pit, three decomposing dogs were also found.

“His arrest is hope for justice to the victims and their families,” a resident said.