The Kenyan entertainment scene is currently gripped by a story that reads more like a dramatic script than a real-life event. At the heart of this unfolding saga is Samuel Ndiriangu Muchoki, famously known to his legion of fans as Samidoh – the undisputed king of Mugithi music. Yet, it's not his chart-topping hits that are currently making headlines; it's his perplexing disappearance, which has led to a startling declaration from his employers: the National Police Service. The question echoing across Kenya, from bustling city streets to quiet rural homes, is a simple yet urgent one: "Where is Samidoh?"
According to an internal memo dated June 9, the National Police Service has officially declared the celebrated singer and police officer a deserter. Samidoh was expected to report back to duty on May 27 after an off-duty break, but he has since gone missing without a trace. The memo starkly notes, "Efforts to trace him have been futile," confirming that his whereabouts remain unknown. This unexpected turn of events has sent shockwaves through both the music industry and the national security apparatus.
The immediate consequence of this unprecedented absence has been swift and severe. The officer, who serves diligently under the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), has had his salary stopped with immediate effect. The official notice sternly states, "He has now absented himself without leave for more than ten days and he is hereby declared a deserter. His salary stopped with immediate effect." This drastic measure underscores the gravity of the situation, highlighting the strict protocols governing law enforcement personnel.
Furthermore, the directive extends beyond a mere halt in pay. Police in Gatumbiro, Nyandarua West – Samidoh’s known home location – have been issued explicit instructions: "Visit his home and if traced arrest him and inform this end for necessary action." This indicates a full-scale effort to locate and apprehend the missing officer, transforming the beloved musician into the subject of an active police search. The very force he serves is now tasked with finding him, adding a layer of dramatic irony to the situation.
This surprising development comes mere weeks after the popular Mugithi artist found himself at the center of another controversy. Samidoh was reportedly transferred to Baringo from his previous station in Gilgil following a live performance of his song ‘Wantam’ that went viral across social media. While no formal reason for this transfer was publicly issued at the time, sources within the police service suggested that the relocation was a direct measure linked to the performance. This earlier incident, though vague in its specifics, hinted at potential disciplinary issues or concerns regarding his public persona conflicting with his duties as a police officer. His current disappearance only amplifies these underlying tensions.
Samidoh is a celebrated Kikuyu musician whose unique sound has captivated millions. His ascent to fame began in 2016 with the release of his debut single, "Ndiri Mutwi Mwega" (My Head Isn't Straight), a song that immediately resonated with audiences and quickly amassed over 1.6 million views on YouTube – a rare and impressive feat for a Kikuyu benga track.
Samidoh's musical style is characterized by his distinctive "one-man guitar" approach. He skillfully plays the guitar, backed by a tight ensemble featuring a drummer and vocalist, creating the infectious and deeply soulful Mugithi sound that has become his signature. Since his breakthrough, he has consistently released hit after hit, dominating the Kikuyu music charts with popular songs like "Kairitu Gakwa," "Ihoya Ria Samidoh," and "Tuhii Twitu," among many others. His prolific output and consistent quality have cemented his status as a true star of Kenyan music.
What many fans might find surprising, however, is Samidoh's parallel career as an Administration Police Officer. His journey into law enforcement began after college when he approached his area District Commissioner seeking employment. A pragmatic question from the DC regarding his ability to run led to his successful recruitment into the service in October 2013. After completing 15 months of rigorous training, he graduated from the National Police Service in 2014, with his first operational assignment being in Eastleigh, Nairobi. This dual identity – a celebrated musician by night, a disciplined police officer by day – has always been a fascinating aspect of his public image, adding an intriguing layer to his persona.
The declaration of Samidoh as a deserter by the very institution he serves raises serious questions about his safety, his professional future, and the underlying reasons for his sudden absence. Is it a personal crisis, a dispute related to his police duties, or perhaps something entirely unforeseen? The Kenyan public, his loyal fanbase, and the authorities are all awaiting answers.
