Investigators from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have intensified investigations into a suspected mass grave discovered at Makaburini Cemetery, with plans underway to exhume bodies believed to have been buried under unclear circumstances.
The DCI has announced that it will move to court to seek exhumation orders, allowing forensic experts and pathologists to recover the remains, determine the cause of death, and establish the identities of the deceased.
The case has now been taken over by the Homicide Directorate following a directive from the Inspector General of Police. According to investigators, a formal application for exhumation was scheduled to be filed on March 23, 2026.
Preliminary Findings
Early investigations reveal that at least 13 unclaimed bodies were reportedly released from Nyamira County Referral Hospital and transported to Kericho for burial on March 20, 2026.
Detectives have since travelled to Nyamira to interview individuals involved in the process, including public health officers, drivers, escorts, and the cemetery caretaker. At least five witnesses have already recorded statements, with more interviews ongoing.
During a search at the caretaker’s residence, investigators recovered a photocopy of a court order allegedly issued by Nyamira Law Courts authorizing the burial of seven unclaimed bodies. Authorities are now working to verify the authenticity of the document.
Evidence and Ongoing Probe
A white Land Cruiser believed to have been used to transport the bodies has been impounded and is undergoing forensic examination.
Meanwhile, the cemetery remains under tight security, with police maintaining a 24-hour guard as investigations continue.
Authorities have confirmed that the cemetery is owned by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), following verification by officials from its Kericho branch.
