Philip Aroko, key suspect in the murder of former Kasipul MP Charles Were released on Sh300,000 bond

Businessman Philip Nahashon Aroko, a key suspect in the murder of immediate former Kasipul Member of Parliament (MP), the late Charles On’gondo Were was yesterday freed on a Sh300,000 cash bail by the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) court.

While delivering the ruling, JKIA Law Courts Principal Magistrate Irene Gichobi imposed several conditions on Aroko’s release.

He was ordered to surrender his passport to the court and is prohibited from travelling to Homa Bay, the home county of the late MP where he is also an aspiring politician.

Additionally, the court restricted him from contacting family members, other suspects, or any individuals associated with the case.

The court also directed that Aroko refrain from interfering with any evidence that could be critical to the ongoing investigation.

As part of his bail conditions, Aroko is required to report regularly to investigating officers and to provide any evidence needed in connection with the case.

He will be reporting to the Investigating Officer attached to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) every two days at Nairobi Area to furnish investigators with information or evidence.

The prosecution had initially requested that Aroko remain in custody, citing the high public interest of the case and the need for further investigation.

“We’ve heard the respondent… he has been cooperating, but we’re investigating the death of a deceased, and this case is of public interest. It is essential that he is detained for seven days to help us determine his level of involvement. We will either bring charges or request his release after this period,” the prosecution argued.

Aroko is among eleven suspects under investigation for the murder of MP Charles Were.

The court has scheduled the next mention for June 3, 2025.