Elvis Opiyo, former NIS officer linked to a high-profile acid attack case, whose family has opted for a Christian burial [Courtesy]
A potential clash is looming between the family of Elvis Opiyo and Luo traditionalists over how the late National Intelligence Service (NIS) employee should be buried, following his death in what authorities have classified as a suspected suicide.
Opiyo, who was at the centre of a widely publicised acid attack case involving his girlfriend and fellow choir member, Mary Claire, died on August 11, 2026, at his residence in Umoja Two, Nairobi. An autopsy reportedly established poisoning as the cause of death, while authorities have classified the incident as a suspected suicide.
Reports indicate that shortly before his death, he had been summoned to Nairobi and allegedly received a dismissal letter in relation to an ongoing case.
Family members and acquaintances said he had been experiencing considerable emotional, psychological instability following his recent legal challenges. This came to a climax when he received a dismissal letter from his seniors. His death came amid reports of depression and anxiety.
