How Sonko Tricked NIS Officer Out of Hiding Over Mary-Claire Acid Attack

How Sonko Tricked NIS Officer Out of Hiding Over Mary-Claire Acid Attack

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has revealed details of a covert operation that allegedly led to the arrest of a suspect linked to the brutal acid attack on gospel singer Claire Mary, in a case that has shocked the nation and reignited concerns over gender-based violence.

In a statement shared on March 24, Sonko said he personally intervened to help track down Elvis Opiyo, who had allegedly gone into hiding following the March 17 attack. The former governor disclosed that the suspect was lured to Nairobi through what he described as a calculated ruse that ultimately enabled authorities to apprehend him.

Sonko spoke after visiting the victim at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), where she is receiving specialised treatment for severe burns sustained during the assault.

“We managed to arrest him on Sunday. We tricked him by lying to him to come to Nairobi, and that’s how we made the arrest. So, justice will be served,” Sonko stated, recounting the events that led to the suspect’s capture on March 22.

The former governor further alleged that Opiyo had claimed to be affiliated with the National Intelligence Service (NIS), though he stressed that such claims would not shield him from prosecution.

“Elvis Opiyo says that he works for the NIS. Even if so, he is not above the law; no one sent him to come and burn you with acid. We will deal with him,” Sonko said during his hospital visit, addressing the victim directly.

The attack occurred near Prestige Plaza on Ngong Road, where Claire Mary — a member of the Redemption Ministers Seventh-day Adventist choir — was reportedly ambushed by an assailant who doused her with a corrosive substance. The incident was captured on surveillance cameras, prompting widespread outrage and calls for swift justice.

Medical officials at KNH say the singer sustained extensive facial and upper-body injuries and remains in critical condition as doctors work to stabilise her and prevent further complications from the burns.

Investigators allege that Opiyo, described as the victim’s estranged former partner, orchestrated the attack by hiring another individual after the end of their eight-year relationship. He was arrested and arraigned at the Kibera Law Courts on March 23, where he faced charges related to the assault.

Court documents indicate that the victim had previously reported Opiyo to police in November 2025 over alleged assault and death threats, suggesting a history of violence prior to the acid attack.

Authorities are also examining whether earlier incidents reported late last year may be connected to the current case, as part of a broader effort to establish motive and intent.

Sonko pledged continued support for the victim, including legal and medical assistance, stating that he would help secure competent representation to ensure the case proceeds without delay.

The attack has sparked renewed debate about personal safety, domestic violence, and the use of corrosive substances as weapons, with advocacy groups urging tougher penalties and stricter controls on hazardous chemicals.

Security analysts note that acid attacks, while relatively rare in Kenya compared to some regions, often result in lifelong physical and psychological trauma for survivors.

Police have not publicly confirmed details of the alleged deception used to lure the suspect to Nairobi, but sources indicate that investigators coordinated closely with informants to track his movements.

As the case moves through the courts, many Kenyans are closely following developments, hoping for accountability in what has become one of the most disturbing assault cases in recent months.

For Claire Mary’s supporters, the priority remains her recovery — and the assurance that those responsible will face the full force of the law.

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How Sonko Tricked NIS Officer Out of Hiding Over Mary-Claire Acid Attack