The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has revealed that the reported disappearance of former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju was a staged incident, following what it described as a thorough and intelligence-led probe into the matter.
In a detailed statement, investigators pointed to suspicious conduct by those close to Tuju, noting, “This raised reasonable suspicion on the part of the investigating officers. Why would a mother whose husband has disappeared for the last couple of hours fail to cooperate with the police and share whatever information she had with the investigating officers?”
The DCI further disclosed that access to Tuju’s residence was initially denied, escalating concerns among officers.
“Following the family’s initial denial of access to Mr. Tuju’s residence along Mitu Drive, the National Police Service escalated the matter with utmost urgency and utmost resolve,” the statement read.
Authorities deployed a multi-agency team to secure the premises and begin investigations.
According to the DCI, “A combined operational team comprising of uniformed police officers and experienced plainclothes detectives was immediately deployed to secure the location and in particular the residence of Honorable Rafael Tuju.”
The operation began late at night, with officers taking measures to preserve evidence.
“The deployment that started very late in the night. The homestead was fully cordoned off to preserve the scene and prevent any potential interference or flight, while investigators simultaneously pursued a search warrant from the courts in line with the legal procedures.”
Crucially, investigators concluded Tuju never left his home.
“Crucially, and based on solid intelligence, and meticulous forensic analysis, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations conclusively, and I’m saying this without an iota of doubt, that Honorable Rafael Tuju was physically present within his residence throughout the period in question.”
Also Read: Raphael Tuju Reveals Chilling Experience After Mysterious Hours-Long Disappearance
The DCI cited mobile phone data as part of its findings.
“Even at the precise time, his mobile phone was switched off at 1818 hours on 21st of March 2026. He was at his current residence.”
Investigators stated that mounting evidence forced Tuju to reappear.
“When confronted with the reality that police were closing in on the truth, and that his deception could no longer be sustained, Mr. Tuju chose to reservice, confirming thereby the investigators’ earlier well-founded suspicion.”
Authorities concluded the disappearance was fabricated.
“That this was a carefully staged disappearance rather than a genuine case of abduction.”
The National Police Service described the incident as a deliberate attempt to mislead both the public and authorities.
“The National Police Service views this conduct of Rafael Tuju not merely as an isolated act of falsehood, but as a deliberate attempt to mislead the Kenyan public, to misdirect the law enforcement resources, and undermine confidence in the very institutions tasked with protecting our citizens.”
The agency added, “This deliberate conduct by Rafael Tuju appears to be a calculated effort to deceive the public, to generate unwarranted sympathy, and to undermine the integrity of the National Police Service, and for that matter, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations for apparent political or personal motives.”
Investigators also warned that such incidents are becoming more frequent.
“This is not an isolated occurrence. The DCI has documented, involving staged disappearances or false abduction claims, often by public figures and even including politically exposed persons in a disturbing pattern designed to undermine public trust in our law enforcement agencies.”
Also Read: Revealed: Last Moments Before Former CS Tuju Went Missing
The DCI confirmed Tuju’s arrest and ongoing questioning.
“The National Police Service, therefore, views the provision of false information to authorities as a very, very serious offense. Accordingly, Honorable Rafael Tiji has been arrested and booked at the current police station to record a comprehensive statement explaining his whereabouts.”
Investigators are examining multiple aspects of the case, including, “the circumstances, behind the abandoned motor vehicle, the reports filed by his family, particulars of the so-called good Samaritans who gave him an accommodation somewhere in Kiambu and all other related conduct.”
The agency emphasized its intent to pursue the case fully.
“This matter, together with other recorded instances involving public officials, will be pursued vigorously. And with the full force of the law.”
The National Police Service reiterated its commitment to professionalism and transparency.
“Our objective is very, very clear. To curb this emerging culture of deception and restore full public confidence in our security apparatus.”
It added that it, “will remain at all time unwavering in its commitment to professionalism, to transparency and impartiality in every investigation that we undertake.”
The DCI also acknowledged public cooperation during the probe, stating, “We sincerely thank the members of the public who came forward with timely and valuable information… your cooperation strengthens our resolve and our ability to serve and protect our fellow Kenyans.”
The statement concluded with a firm warning: “The National Police Service will pursue this case and similar incidents to the fullest extent of the law.”
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Photo of DCI Headquarters along Kiambu Road. PHOTO/K24