Officer had played a key part in landmark cases

Kenya police spokesman Eric Kiraithe (above) said investigations are on to determine cause of detective's death who was investigating Kilome MP Harun Mwau’s vehicle. Photo/FILE

The detective who died while investigating Kilome MP Harun Mwau’s vehicle shooting was also a key investigator in the Sh6.4 billion cocaine haul case in 2004.

Corporal Gerald Wasike Wanyama collapsed after bleeding from the mouth and nose at Nairobi’s Central Police Station on Saturday.

Mr Wanyama, a crime scene officer with connections to Interpol, was also part of the police team involved in the rescue operation during the Nakumatt fire in 2009.

Nicknamed “Mrefu” by his friends, his towering image was often captured by photojournalists alongside the cocaine haul throughout the investigations.

On Sunday, more than 30 family members and friends, some of whom travelled from as far as Kakamega, visited his home in Pangani to mourn the officer who served the police force for 19 years.

“We have lost a pillar in our family, a role model and a dedicated police officer who swore to serve and protect the nation even when faced with danger,” said his nephew Jammins Majimbo, who lived with him.

On his sitting room table, there were piles of paper, a dictionary, Interpol training manuals and empty tablet packs.

Mr Wanyama had swallowed 24 anti-malaria tablets several days before his mysterious death. He also downed eight tablets used to relieve pain and irritation.

Family members who spoke to the Nation said that they suspected foul play in his death.

“He was feeling fine since Wednesday... There was no sign of ill health,” his brother Fred Malava said.

Officers who spoke to the family said that Mr Wanyama asked for sick leave on Monday and Tuesday and returned to work on Wednesday.

He is survived by a wife and three children.