Police neutralize suspect in murder of Wells Fargo Manager, Willis Ayieko
Detectives have confirmed the identity of a highly wanted murder and robbery suspect, previously misidentified as George Oduor Okoth, following his fatal capture in a police operation.
Known to be behind multiple violent robberies and armed attacks in the Kisumu region, the suspect’s real name was uncovered as Robert Wakolo Okoth, alias “George Oduor Okoth” or “Kim” depending on his audience—a tactic he used to elude police.
According to the DCI, Robert Wakolo’s death followed an intense pursuit that culminated in an ambush at Mulberry Guest House, opposite Kisumu National Polytechnic.
Authorities discovered him armed with a Smith & Wesson pistol loaded with three live rounds, prepared for a confrontation.
The confrontation ended with the police securing the firearm and additional evidence now earmarked for forensic analysis.
The suspect’s true identity came to light after his father identified his body, preserved at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) mortuary, and clarified his real name.
The Kenya National Registration Bureau confirmed this through records linking Wakolo to the criminal aliases.
The revelation of his background was a breakthrough for detectives, who had been profiling an unidentified man tied to numerous crimes, including a brutal homicide that shocked the region.
Robert Wakolo’s criminal activities include the January 2024 shooting of Grace Awino Odero, an M-Pesa attendant at Kibuye Market, Kisumu.
The attack, which claimed Odero’s life, led to the arrest of one suspect and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle previously stolen from a Ugandan police officer.
Wakolo had managed to escape, leaving behind a getaway Toyota Axio. In a separate operation on May 3, 2024, police raided his Nyamasaria home, recovering another AK-47 rifle, magazine, and 36 rounds of ammunition.
While Wakolo again slipped through the net, his 17-year-old brother and alleged accomplice were apprehended.
Police further linked Wakolo to the murder of Willis Ayieko, HR manager for Wells Fargo, from whom one of the recovered firearms had been stolen.
Ayieko’s tragic death had intensified the pursuit, mobilizing detectives across the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau and regional police teams to bring the fugitive to justice.
With his death and the seizure of significant evidence, police are closing a grim chapter in Kisumu’s ongoing battle with organized crime, although investigations remain underway to dismantle any associates or networks connected to Wakolo’s criminal activities.
The authorities are optimistic that the resolution of this high-profile case will strengthen public safety and reaffirm their commitment to curbing violent crime in the region.
