The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has condemned a tragic mob justice incident in Mbale Town, Vihiga County, that left George Olande Otobe, a boda boda rider, dead on February 21, 2026, at around noon.
Preliminary reports indicate Otobe allegedly stabbed Hussein Hassan in the head, prompting bystanders to retaliate. The confrontation quickly escalated into mob violence, resulting in Otobe’s death. A knife was recovered from the scene by authorities.
Otobe’s body was initially taken to Vihiga County Referral Hospital mortuary, pending a postmortem examination. The postmortem confirmed multiple severe head injuries consistent with mob violence, after which the body was transferred to JOOTRH Hospital mortuary for preservation.
Identification documents show Otobe was a resident of Kisumu County. He was working as a boda boda rider and had attended the rally that coincided with the Linda Mwananchi political gathering in Kakamega.
The DCI reminded the public that while the Constitution guarantees the right to assemble peacefully and unarmed under Article 37, this right is conditional. Participants must remain peaceful to avoid incidents like the one in Mbale.
Authorities also noted that preliminary investigations suggest organisers of the Linda Mwananchi rally had armed supporters, a clear violation of the principles of peaceful assembly. The DCI stressed organisers must prevent supporters from carrying weapons.
The Directorate praised police officers on the ground for showing restraint, preventing further escalation, and averting additional loss of life in a tense situation. Their actions limited the potential for wider violence.
Investigations are ongoing, and the DCI affirmed that all individuals responsible, whether for the mob attack or arming rally participants, will face the full force of the law. Accountability will be enforced without exceptions.
The DCI expressed condolences to Otobe’s family, friends, and relatives and wished a speedy recovery to Hussein Hassan. Authorities are urging the public to provide information through FichuaKwaDCI 0800 722 203, WhatsApp 0709 570 000, or local police stations to aid the investigation.
This incident highlights the dangers of political gatherings descending into violence and reinforces the need for strict adherence to constitutional rights and public safety protocols at rallies.
