Former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i has addressed unresolved cases including the River Yala bodies and Chris Msando’s murder, revealing DCI investigations remained open during his tenure.
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has addressed for the first time some of Kenya’s most controversial and unresolved cases from his tenure, including the gruesome discovery of over 30 bodies in River Yala and the 2017 murder of IEBC ICT manager Chris Msando.
In an exclusive interview with Citizen TV aired on Tuesday, Dr. Matiang’i stated that his ministry had actively pursued investigations into the cases until the end of his term, adding that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) continued to handle the files after his exit from office.
River Yala: Over 30 Bodies, No Justice Yet
On the shocking River Yala case, where decomposing bodies were retrieved from the river and a local morgue in 2022, Matiang’i revealed that he had escalated the matter to the then-Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai. The former CS disclosed that the DCI was tasked with conducting intensive investigations.
“We asked the Police IG, and it was agreed that the DCI should spend some time there. When they came back, we demanded an inquest,” Matiang’i said, emphasizing that the investigation hinged on families positively identifying the victims. “The file was still open when we left. I didn’t walk away with it. It was a police matter,” he added.
Despite the public outcry and involvement of human rights groups, no arrests or clear explanations have been made since the case emerged.
Msando Murder: Still No Answers
On the murder of Chris Msando, whose tortured body was found days before the 2017 General Election, Matiang’i said the mystery remains unresolved despite efforts from the ministry and security agencies.
“The incident was reported and I know it the way you know it. We asked several questions about the matter,” he told the interviewer, distancing himself from allegations of a cover-up.
He further mentioned that similar unresolved cases — including those of businessman Jacob Juma and Sergeant Kipyegon Kenei — were under police investigation and classified as “open files” at the time.
Dr. Matiang’i expressed his belief that the government should initiate public inquests to uncover the truth behind these high-profile killings. He stressed his willingness to testify before any judge handling such inquiries.
“If the government wants to get to the bottom of these cases, let them open public inquests. I’m ready to testify,” he stated.
The revelations come at a time when many Kenyans have been demanding answers on enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and the integrity of security agencies. Matiang’i’s comments may renew calls for justice and transparency, particularly from civil society and the families of victims still seeking closure.
While he did not directly accuse any individuals or institutions of obstruction, his remarks highlight the persistent opacity surrounding some of Kenya’s darkest security incidents.
