By Team
Homa Bay County Deputy Governor Mr. Joseph Oyugi Magwanga last night escaped an attempted assassination at his rural home in Kasipul.
Head of Communication at Deputy Governor’s office, Mr. Samwel Owida, confirmed the incident, saying Magwanga survived an attempt on his life by the grace of God.
Owida said Magwanga left his home at 6.30 pm for his farm in Sikri village and was tipped off about a possible threat to his life, after suspicion grew over some suspicious characters who were spotted around his home.
He said Magwanga spent most of the day at home and only left late in the evening to visit his farm in the area.
Owida said that after Magwanga was informed of the suspicion, he detoured and used a different vehicle and route to his home and safely gained entry by 8.00 pm. ”Magwanga was able to drive back to his home undetected as the would-be assassin lay in wait for him to return home in his official vehicle,” he said.
He said that when his official vehicle was driven back home, it was ambushed some 30 meters away from his gate, and an exchange of fire began.
“The security team had been informed of the suspected ambush, and they prepared for any eventuality.
When they were about 30 meters from the gate and climbing the hill to the home, a gunshot was fired at them. They responded by firing back and a fierce exchange ensued lasting several minutes.
The suspects escaped into a nearby river. There was no casualty during the exchange,” he said.
Owida said the security details of the deputy government proceeded and recorded a statement at Oyugis police station.
He said top security officers from Rachuonyo South visited the deputy governor’s home and are currently on the ground, combing the area for evidence.
Owida said the Deputy Governor does not want to speculate on the reason behind his attempted assassination but urged the police to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
The attempted assassination comes hot on the heels after the recent murder of Kasipul MP Charles Ongondo Were, who was shot dead along Ngong Road.
Police have already arrested several suspects in Ongondo’s murder, including his driver and security officer and a director Lake Basin Development Authority, Mr. Dave Kalo and a politician, Mr. Philip Aroko.
Ongondo was elected MP for Kasipul in 2017 after Magwanga opted to contest for the Homa Bay gubernatorial seat against Cyprian Awiti.
