Crucial Forensic Evidence Surfaces in Rex Masai Murder Investigation
New forensic evidence presented in court has significantly bolstered the investigation into the killing of Rex Masai, who tragically lost his life during the Gen Z protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on June 25, 2024. The compelling evidence, including analyzed photographs, videos, and CCTV footage, aims to place a specific suspect at the scene of the crime, advancing the case against an identified individual.
Forensic Analysis Illuminates the Crime Scene
Crime scene investigator Joshua Mutua, affiliated with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), detailed his findings to the court, explaining his meticulous analysis of 36 photographs and two video clips that captured the events leading up to and during Masai’s murder. The victim, a 31-year-old, was shot dead in the heart of Nairobi’s CBD amidst widespread demonstrations.
Mutua provided a step-by-step account of the suspect’s appearance as depicted in the visual evidence. The individual is described as having a brown complexion, wearing a cap, and a blue shirt. Notably, the suspect was seen carrying what appeared to be a police communication device and a baton. Further distinguishing features included bracelets adorned with the colours of the Kenyan flag.
Crucially, Mutua testified that the individual captured in these forensic materials bore striking similarities to a man previously identified in other video and CCTV footage. This other footage reportedly showed the same individual engaged in dispersing protesters within the city.
Suspect Identification and Alibi Challenges
The prosecution has identified the suspect in question as Police Constable Isaiah Murangiri. Murangiri, who appeared in court in July 2025, has consistently denied any involvement in quelling the protests, asserting that he was off duty on the day of the incident.
While the presented videos show an individual with a similar complexion and a discernible birthmark, Murangiri has maintained his alibi, refuting claims of his presence in the CBD on June 25, 2024.
In a significant development in September 2025, the prosecution presented evidence indicating that Safaricom’s cellular network data placed Murangiri in close proximity to the crime scene. This information directly contradicted his alibi defense and further strengthened the prosecution’s case.
CCTV Footage Provides Critical Timeline
The latest findings presented to the court heavily rely on CCTV footage obtained from a local bank situated within the capital. This footage, recorded between the hours of 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM, has been instrumental in reconstructing the events of that evening.
Mutua emphasized how this bank footage has helped investigators to meticulously piece together the sequence of events. The analysis of this visual record has allowed for a more precise focus on the suspect believed to be responsible for Rex Masai’s murder, narrowing the scope of the investigation and reinforcing the prosecution’s arguments. The ongoing presentation of this forensic evidence marks a critical juncture in the pursuit of justice for Rex Masai and his family.
