The nine suspects in the murder of Kamaindi Chief Japhet Majau will remain in police custody for the next two months, Chuka High Court has directed.
The suspects: Gerald Njeru, Julius Mburu, John Nthiga Kirema, Sisiria Katora Rochianga, Leah Muthoni Ngigi, Julius Njeru Kimenye, Jornard Njagi Kibuibe, Gediel Munyua Munugu and Tom Kinyua Njoka pleaded not guilty to the murder charges.
They are accused of willingly killing the chief at Kamaindi area in Igambang’ombe Sub County, on April 30, 2019.
The prosecution side led by Jane Kemunto Maari assured the court that the nine were fit to stand trial having undergone mental assessment as advised by a lower court last week where they were first arraigned.
“From the mental assessment report presented in court, the nine are fit to stand trial,” the Prosecutor told the court.
Release on bond
The accused persons’ lawyer orally sought their release on bond but the prosecution side opposed calling for a written application.
Judge Robert Limo directed that a social inquiry report for the nine be presented in court for consideration together with the formal bond application.
Meanwhile, Justice Limo directed that they remain in police custody until July 31 when the matter will be heard.
The chief, reportedly killed and his body set ablaze, was buried at his Kigatuni village on May 17.
OCS killing
Chuka OCS Joseph Kinyua was the following day (May 1) killed at Ugweri market in Embu County as he pursued a suspect in the chief’s killing David Ikaaba.
A police informer who had accompanied the OCS and who was injured in the incidence later succumbed while receiving treatment at Tenri Hospital in Embu County.
The suspect was shot dead at the market by a police officer.
Embu suspects
Already four suspects in the murder of the OCS are in Embu police custody as investigations are being finalized to allow them take plea.
They were arraigned in an Embu court on May 20 but police sought more time to probe into the matter before the suspects are charged.
