Investigation reveals lawyer Tom Ouya Imbukwa was attacked and left in Nairobi’s Harambee Sacco Estate within Buruburu.
The reason behind the killing remains unclear, though authorities stated they were following potential connections to the case.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) characterized the event as a somber period for the legal field and the nation as a whole.
LSK President Charles Kanjama verified that Imbukwa died from wounds he received during what was described as a vicious attack.
The legal professional was found at Harambee SACCO Estate in critical condition following the incident and transported to the Intensive Care Unit at Kenyatta National Hospital, where he subsequently passed away.
Police examined the location on Thursday as part of their murder investigation.
Kanjama expressed deep concerns regarding the circumstances of the event, mentioning allegations that Imbukwa had feared for his safety for approximately two weeks before the assault, reportedly receiving threats from a police officer.
Based on preliminary reports, the lawyer had refrained from attending his workplace and court proceedings due to safety worries.
Before his health deteriorated, Imbukwa reportedly stated that he had been attacked by police officers along with other people.
LSK, however, stressed that these assertions are still under verification through ongoing inquiries.
Initial observations indicate the lawyer suffered extensive injuries typical of torture, including disturbing reports that his left eye had been removed.
Additional concerns have been raised about inconsistencies at the scene, with personnel at Savannah Police Post reportedly claiming no blood was present where the victim was located, despite visible bleeding. This has led to speculation that the assault might have happened at a different location.
The LSK connected the occurrence to a more extensive pattern of insecurity affecting members of the legal profession, referencing the recent murder of advocate Kyalo Mbobu, for which responsibility has not yet been determined.
The organization warned that such incidents signal an escalating danger to legal professionals in Kenya.
“The growing exposure of Advocates to violence, intimidation and retaliation presents a significant risk to the administration of justice,” the declaration stated, pointing out that assaults on lawyers weaken the rule of law and constitutional framework.
The Society has now requested the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the National Police Service to carry out immediate, unbiased and comprehensive investigations.
It also requested the public with pertinent information to come forward, guaranteeing confidentiality.
In support of the grieving family, LSK announced it would offer legal aid and enable the participation of an independent pathologist during the postmortem examination to ensure openness.
Furthermore, the organization demanded that anyone found responsibleregardless of positionbe fully held accountable under the law, stating that immunity in matters involving violence against advocates cannot be accepted.
In memory of the late lawyer, LSK has encouraged its members to wear purple ribbons throughout the week as a symbol of mourning and unity, as well as a collective demand for justice.
“The Law Society of Kenya will not give up until the truth is discovered and responsibility is secured,” Kanjama declared, adding that the organization will carefully monitor the investigations and employ all required legal and advocacy actions to ensure justice is carried out.
Police indicated they were looking into the occurrence with the objective of identifying the suspects and motive.
Nairobi police commander Issa Mohamud mentioned that a team had been formed to handle the case.