Students storm police station to demand justice for murdered colleague
Rift Valley
By
Peter Ochieng
| Aug 05, 2025
Students of Eldoret National Polytechnic protested at the Langas Police Station in Kapseret, Uasin Gishu County, to demand justice for their murdered colleague.
Ronald Odwar Atima’s body was found in Cherunya, approximately 2 kilometers from the institution.
Atima sustained an injury to the head in the attack on Sunday night.
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The deceased was a civil engineering student.
Students protested to express dissatisfaction with the police for not doing enough to ensure their safety.
“Things are not going to be the same in this institution if we don’t receive clear answers regarding the circumstances surrounding our colleague’s unfortunate death,” said Kevin Kasam.
“We want to know who is responsible for this tragic death, especially since nothing was stolen from him, including his cellphone, books, and other valuable academic materials, despite the police station being just a few meters away from where his body was discovered,” he added.
Student leaders Julet Mokeira and Meresha Akoth accused the police of laxity, citing escalating insecurity in Langas.
They said that incidents of violence directed at students and even lecturers have persisted without any significant intervention from police.
“As we seek the truth behind Ronald Atima's murder, we also demand an immediate report before taking further action, as the situation has become intolerable. Instead of patrolling the area, the police seem to focus on hunting down illicit brewers,” Mokeira said.
Eldoret National Polytechnic Chief Principal, Charles Koech, said that Atima’s death was a significant loss to his family and the institution.
Dr Koech urged students to be cautious and mindful of their surroundings, particularly at night.
“We are mourning as an institution, but to clarify, the student was an alumnus since he had completed his courses last year. Once you leave a school, you are no longer considered a student of that institution,” he told The Standard in an interview.
Daniel Muleli, the area Directorate of Criminal Investigation officer, confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that officers are actively involved.
“I expect to receive updates regarding the case from my officers shortly, and I will communicate any information promptly,” Muleli assured.
The DCI also urged students to take personal responsibility for their safety while in social settings to help prevent future incidents.