A senior official was arrested on Thursday in connection with the fatal shooting of lawyer Mathew Kyalo Mbobu, police confirmed.

Investigators indicated the killing may be linked to money Mbobu allegedly owed, though the exact motive is still unclear.

Authorities said the official’s precise role in the incident is under investigation, with detectives continuing to question those in custody.

“They are in custody as suspects. They are alleging that they are friends,” said a source involved in the probe.

Investigators recovered a large sum of cash from the homes of those detained, using counting machines to verify the amounts as part of the inquiry conducted in Nairobi, where the main investigation team is based.

Some of the suspects had met with Mbobu at a restaurant on Tuesday afternoon, hours before the shooting.

Police are also following up on other individuals considered persons of interest to clarify the purpose of meetings at a hotel along Jakaya Kikwete Road.

Some of Mbobu’s clients have already recorded statements about their interactions with him before the killing.

Mbobu was shot multiple times in the neck and chest along Magadi Road on September 9, 2025, while driving home.

The assailant, riding a motorcycle, fired at least eight shots, causing fatal spinal injuries. The gunman then escaped while discharging the firearm into the air.

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga directed the Inspector General of Police to accelerate investigations and submit a full report within seven days.

“The ODPP echoes the DCI’s appeal for members of the public with any information relevant to this case to come forward and share it with law enforcement agencies without delay,” he said.

He condemned the killing as tragic and reaffirmed the ODPP’s commitment to upholding the law and protecting all citizens.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, speaking in Migori County during a security tour, condemned the act and vowed to pursue those responsible.

“This is a very sad thing that has happened in our country, it’s akin to what happened to Ongondo Were, and I am happy to note that there is progress that has been made by the DCI,” he said.

Murkomen, who described Mbobu as his teacher, colleague, and friend, encouraged the public to provide information that could aid investigators.

“It is in the interest of the security sector and Kenyans that the truth comes out. I am very optimistic that in a very short time, we will have leads as far as this issue is concerned,” he stated.

He emphasised that the government is committed to pursuing all cases equally, ensuring justice is delivered for every citizen regardless of profile.