The National Police Service (NPS) has ordered the immediate arrest of popular Mugithi musician and police officer Samuel Muchoki, widely known as Samidoh, over alleged desertion from duty.
According to official reports, Samidoh has been absent without official leave since May 27, 2025, after he was redeployed to the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Gilgil. Sources within the NPS confirmed that the officer failed to report to the new post following the end of his leave, prompting disciplinary action. As a result, his salary has been suspended.
A police report signed by the ASTU commandant and obtained by Kenyans.co.ke stated, “The officer was granted off-duty and was supposed to report back on 27/05/2025, but he failed to do so… He has now absented himself without leave for a period of more than 10 days and is hereby declared a deserter with effect from 06/06/2025.”
Investigations reveal that Samidoh is currently in the United States on a musical tour, which police say was undertaken without formal clearance from the Service.
The controversy comes in the wake of a recent performance where Samidoh was seen encouraging crowds chanting anti-government slogans, particularly the term “Wantam”—a popular phrase implying President William Ruto should serve only one term. The incident is believed to have triggered his abrupt transfer and disciplinary scrutiny for violating Service Standing Orders.
Meanwhile, a cryptic quote posted by Samidoh on social media, citing Abraham Lincoln, “Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves”, has fueled public speculation.
Under the National Police Service Act, officers absent without cause for more than ten days are deemed deserters and may face dismissal or imprisonment of up to two years.
