The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has officially ruled out claims of foul play in the death of former Lugari Member of Parliament Cyrus Jirongo, following an extensive and multi-agency investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
In a statement released on Monday, the DCI said detectives conducted a thorough probe to establish the cause of Jirongo’s death, interrogating individuals who were with him shortly before the incident, as well as witnesses and first responders linked to the tragic event.
Jirongo, who was 64 years old at the time of his death, died in a fatal road accident in the early hours of December 13, 2025, along the busy Nairobi–Nakuru Highway.
Fatal Accident Along Nairobi–Nakuru Highway
According to official police findings, the former lawmaker was driving to his rural home in Lugari, Kakamega County, when his vehicle was involved in a head-on collision with a Climax Coach bus.
The crash occurred during the early morning hours, a period often associated with reduced visibility and increased road risks. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the collision, but Jirongo succumbed to his injuries.
The accident sent shockwaves across the country, given Jirongo’s long-standing presence in Kenya’s political and business circles.
Extensive Investigations Launched
Following the incident, the DCI launched an immediate and comprehensive investigation to determine whether the crash was purely accidental or whether there were underlying criminal elements involved.
Detectives interrogated several individuals considered crucial to establishing Jirongo’s movements and activities in the hours leading up to his death.
Among those who recorded statements was Jirongo’s wife, Ann Lanoi Pertet, who provided information regarding his travel plans and state of mind before embarking on the journey.
The driver of the Climax Coach bus, Tiras Kamau Githinji, and the bus conductor, Manoah Ekokwa Alukoya Olasi, were also questioned as part of the probe.
Witness Statements and CCTV Evidence
DCI officers also recorded statements from staff members at Eagol Petrol Station, where CCTV footage captured Jirongo’s vehicle making a U-turn shortly before the accident.
According to investigators, the footage from the petrol station formed a critical part of the inquiry, helping detectives reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the crash.
A multi-agency investigative team visited and processed the accident scene, where they secured and preserved key exhibits and documented physical evidence.
“The team recovered and analysed CCTV footage, examined the bus manifest, and obtained amateur video recordings taken by bystanders at the scene,” the DCI stated.
Accounts From Political Leaders
In addition to immediate witnesses, several political leaders who were last seen with Jirongo before his death voluntarily presented themselves to assist investigators.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, alongside politicians Rebman Malala and Ibrahim Sambuli, recorded statements detailing their interactions with Jirongo on December 12, 2025.
The three leaders were reportedly with Jirongo at Karen Oasis Restaurant hours before he embarked on the journey that ended in tragedy.
Their accounts were aimed at establishing Jirongo’s final movements, conversations, and condition prior to the accident.
Passengers Come Forward
Further strengthening the investigation, seven passengers who were travelling aboard the ill-fated Climax Coach bus voluntarily presented themselves to police to give statements.
According to the DCI, their testimonies were consistent with other evidence collected, reinforcing the conclusion that the crash was a traffic accident rather than a criminal act.
“Seven passengers from the ill-fated bus presented themselves to assist in the investigation, and their statements were also recorded,” the DCI noted.
Forensic Analysis and Findings
All evidence collected — including CCTV footage, witness statements, the bus manifest, and video recordings — was subjected to forensic analysis by specialists.
After reviewing the totality of the evidence, the DCI concluded that the incident was a road traffic accident and found no indication of foul play or external interference.
“Based on the evidence gathered, the incident was established to be a road traffic accident, with no indicators of criminal intent,” the investigative agency confirmed.
File to Be Forwarded to ODPP
Despite ruling out foul play, the DCI stated that the investigation file will still be forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for appropriate directions once remaining procedural processes are completed.
This step is standard practice in fatal accident cases and ensures legal oversight before investigations are formally closed.
Final Farewell to Cyrus Jirongo
Cyrus Jirongo was laid to rest on December 30, 2025, at his family homestead in Lumakanda, Kakamega County.
He was buried next to his parents in a ceremony attended by family members, political leaders, friends, and residents who gathered to pay their last respects.
Jirongo was remembered as a seasoned politician, businessman, and influential figure who played a significant role in Kenya’s political landscape over several decades.
Appeal for Restraint
In its statement, the DCI urged members of the public and political leaders to exercise restraint and avoid speculation surrounding the former MP’s death.
Authorities warned that unverified claims and conjecture could cause unnecessary public anxiety and undermine confidence in investigative processes.
“The public is urged to refrain from speculative statements that may prejudice investigations or mislead the public,” the DCI said.
Conclusion
The DCI’s findings bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding the death of Cyrus Jirongo, affirming that the tragedy was the result of a road traffic accident and not foul play.
As Kenya continues to grapple with road safety challenges, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks on major highways and the importance of thorough investigations in cases involving high-profile individuals.