DCI takes over Kericho burial probe as body count discrepancies deepen mystery

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KERICHO, Kenya — Detectives have taken over investigations into the controversial burial of multiple bodies at Makaburini Cemetery in Kericho, as fresh discrepancies over the number of bodies raise new questions.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), through its Homicide Directorate, is now leading the probe following earlier reports that several bodies were buried under unclear circumstances in Kericho East Sub-County.

A court application is set to be filed on Monday to allow for the exhumation of the bodies, which investigators say will be key to establishing identities and determining the cause of death.

Conflicting figures emerge

At the centre of the investigation is a growing mismatch in records:

• preliminary findings indicate 13 unclaimed bodies were released from Nyamira County Referral Hospital and transported to Kericho for burial on March 20, 2026
• however, the Occurrence Book (OB) report indicates 14 bodies were received for burial
• a separate court order recovered during the probe appears to authorise the burial of only seven bodies

The conflicting figures have intensified scrutiny over how the bodies were handled and documented.

Investigations widen

Detectives have travelled to Nyamira and are questioning public health officers, drivers, escorts and the cemetery caretaker. Several witnesses have already recorded statements, with more interviews ongoing.

Police have also impounded a white Land Cruiser believed to have transported the bodies. The vehicle is undergoing forensic examination.

Cemetery remains sealed

Makaburini Cemetery is still cordoned off and under round-the-clock police guard as investigations continue. Officials have confirmed the site is owned by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK).

Focus on accountability

Investigators say the priority is to reconcile the numbers, verify documentation, and establish whether proper procedures were followed--or if there was any wrongdoing.

The DCI has urged the public to remain calm and share any information that could assist the probe.