Double Life Ends in Embu as ODM’s Oswando Shot Dead During Prison Escape

Swaleh Abdallah Njiru, 38, widely known as Oswando, was fatally shot on Tuesday during a dramatic escape attempt from police custody in Embu County, bringing an end to the life of a man whose name was synonymous with crime and controversy in parts of Nairobi and Embu. 

The incident occurred shortly after Oswando's appearance at the Siakago Law Courts, where he was attending an ongoing criminal case. According to police reports, Oswando initiated his escape by deploying pepper spray against prison warders inside the moving prison van. The ensuing chaos allowed him to break free and flee through Gatondo village. Embu West Sub-County Police Commander Vincent Kitili said that Oswando then entered an unfinished building, armed himself with a panga, and threatened an officer in pursuit. 

Despite repeated warnings to surrender, Oswando allegedly charged at the officer, resulting in the officer firing a fatal shot in what police are describing as an act of self-defence. Oswando's death has immediately reignited a national debate regarding law enforcement tactics and the complexities of criminal justice in Kenya. His family, having identified his body at the Embu Referral Hospital mortuary, claims the shooting was an act of excessive force. 

"The officer could have shot him in the leg, not the chest. This was an execution," said his brother, Ismail Abdallah, who maintains that Oswando was a diligent man whose legal problems were politically motivated and unfairly represented.

Conversely, many residents in Embu and Nairobi view Oswando's death with a sense of relief. For years, he had been linked to violent crimes, including robberies, extortion, and control of the lucrative miraa trade. Police records indicate his involvement in a series of incidents across Kasarani, Githurai 44, and Santon, where he operated with impunity on a distinctive motorbike, instilling fear among locals. Officers familiar with his activities describe him as a figure who consistently evaded justice due to his influence and notoriety.

In Embu, Oswando's name regularly surfaced in connection with stolen electronics and gang activity. One notable instance involved a suspected raid, led by Oswando, on a gas outlet owned by a local businessman, which resulted in the theft of 84 gas cylinders. Despite a formal report being filed, no arrests were made, prompting speculation about his ability to avoid prosecution.

Oswando's criminal network extended beyond individual operations. In November 2022, three alleged accomplices—James Murathi (alias Jimcarter), Andrew Murathi (alias Waaxy), and Charles Mwaniki (alias Bush)—were apprehended by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ elite Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau. These individuals were connected to a violent robbery in Ishiara, Mbeere North Sub-County, and accused of terrorising residents and stealing valuables.

Adding complexity to Oswando's public image were his political aspirations. During the August 2022 General Election, he ran for the Kirimari Ward Representative seat under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) banner, but his bid was unsuccessful. Supporters portrayed him as a grassroots leader advocating for the needs of the poor, while critics viewed his candidacy as an attempt to legitimise his criminal activities.

"He helped the poor. His death is a big loss," said Mr Njue Karangu, a supporter, reflecting the mixed sentiments surrounding Oswando's legacy. 

However, others have welcomed the news, citing years of living in fear. "He was a dangerous criminal involved in robberies and murders. We lived in fear when he was around," said a resident of Embu town.

Oswando leaves behind a complex legacy, surviving through three wives and four children. His father, allegedly involved in motor vehicle theft, was also killed by police years ago, suggesting a generational pattern of conflict with the law.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has announced it will launch an investigation into the shooting to ascertain whether the use of force was justified under the circumstances.