‘Umbwa wewe!’ Police officer threatens Nation journalist

By Jakowiti Atwech 

Another Siaya County based journalist fears for his life after he allegedly received threats from a senior police officer who is a state witness in a murder case.

Speaking to the press after reporting the matter at Bondo police station under OB No.28/25/12/19, Mr Dickens Wasonga, of Nation Newspaper said Inspector Sabina Kerubo called him on Wednesday and issued threats over articles he published on the death of former Star newspaper reporter Eric Oloo.

Ms Kerubo, who is a State witness in the murder case warned Mr Wasonga of dire consequences.

Blood soaked body of Oloo was found in Chief Inspector of police Kerubo’s bedroom in Ugunja town on the morning of November 21.

Five suspects including Kerubo were immediately taken into custody but two suspects, among them Ms Kerubo’s daughter and househelp, were later released.

The autopsy conducted at Sega Funeral Home by government pathologist Gabriel Juma, revealed that the journalist died from excessive bleeding.

In the alleged recorded phone call, Wasonga tried explaining to the officer that his article was based on information he obtained from the police but Kerubo allegedly threatened Wasonga for ruining her reputation.

• “You damaged my reputation…did I kill that journalist? That was the first impression you gave to people…useless, You should know that you have a wife and children, and you will soon pay for whatever you did to me Dickens,” Kerubo was quoted as saying.
• “You put out a one-sided story and did not consult me. You gave the public the wrong perception,” she added

According to the audio recording accessed by press, Ms Kerubo claimed that the late Oloo banged his head on the wall, leading to his death.

Mr Wasonga however told her to seek legal redress in court if she feels the story offended her.

Bondo sub-county police commander Mr Anthony Wafula confirmed that the report was made at the station and that they are following up the matter.