A Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officer investigating former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju’s case has told a Kibera court that abduction cannot take place inside a person’s own home.

Sergeant Moses Mongera, assigned to the Karen DCI unit, gave the testimony on Tuesday while under cross-examination in the case where Tuju faces charges of giving false information.

Police Surveillance at Tuju’s Residence

Mongera explained that on March 23, 2026, he was deployed to conduct surveillance at Tuju’s Karen residence after police received reports that the former Cabinet Secretary was missing and had allegedly been trailed days earlier.

The officer said he arrived at the Karen police station around 6 a.m. and was assigned two officers to monitor Tuju’s compound in Mwitu, Karen. They were tasked with waiting for a court order to enter the premises and verify any abduction claims.

"We were to do surveillance while waiting for a court order. Surveillance entails monitoring to get the truth," Mongera stated.

He added that the officers remained outside the gate initially, denied entry, but later allowed in after several vehicles, including Land Cruisers, arrived at the compound around 11 a.m.

Tuju’s Appearance and Arrest

At approximately 1:30 p.m., Tuju emerged from the residence accompanied by a group of lawyers, including Kalonzo Musyoka. The police then informed their superiors who met with the legal team before escorting Tuju to Karen Police Station for questioning.

It was at the police station that Tuju was arrested and charged with providing false information.

Cross-Examination Highlights

  • Mongera denied that abduction could occur inside a residence, stating, "Nobody can be abducted in his residence."
  • He admitted not having seen Tuju inside the house before he appeared later that afternoon.
  • The officer gave inconsistent accounts about the origin of reports that triggered the police operation, initially citing Tuju’s son but later identifying a security guard from West Nairobi School as the complainant.
  • Mongera also struggled to clarify details about reports of Tuju being trailed and the number of vehicles involved in the operation, giving conflicting statements during testimony.

Next Steps

The prosecution indicated it has about 10 witnesses remaining, while the defense requested a reduction to expedite the trial. The prosecution said it would consider this request.

The case is scheduled to resume on September 10, 2026, for further hearings.