Two people in the weird killing of a Grade Two pupil, Deborah Kagendi from Magutuni in Tharaka Nithi County have pleaded not guilty of the offence.
Before Chuka High Court judge, Justice Lucy Gitari on Monday, Mr Suleiman Mukiira, 94 and Michael Ngugi 32 however vowed to narrate to the court what exactly happened in what was suspected to be a ritual sacrifice.
The court was told that the two, Ngigi and Mukira murdered the nine-year-old girl by beheading her on Sunday January 17, 2021 at the latter’s homestead where they were later arrested by police.
When they were first presented in a magistrate court, police were granted more time to conclude the investigations into the murder that was a shocker to the entire country.
Later the magistrate court ordered the two taken for a mental test and were found fit to stand trial in High Court.
The lawyer representing Mukiira, Mr Mutegi Mugambi pleaded with the court to release him on a bond claiming that he is a very old man and not flight risk.
He added that because Magutuni residents are bitter and may hurt the old man, his grandson who lives in Nairobi is ready to stay with him there and make sure that he attends all court sessions.
“My client’s grandson is ready to stay with him in Nairobi where he lives for the sake of his safety,” said Mr Mugambi.
The prosecutor, Mr Eric Momanyi asked the court to direct the counsel to file a formal application for the bond for the state to respond.
He added that he intends to challenge any bond application for the safety of the accused and the weight of the matter.
“The accused are only guaranteed of safety under state custody because the villagers are very bitter and may decide to revenge by lynching them if released,” said Mr Momanyi.
Ngugi’s lawyer, Charles Ireri Mugo, asked the court to order for a pre-bail report of his client before he applies for a bond
The Judge ordered Mukiira’s lawyer to formally apply for a bond in writing and serve the court and the state counsel within 14 days and the latter to respond within 14 days of receiving the document.
Justice Gitari directed the probation officer to conduct an in-depth social inquiry on the Ngugi’s application and submit a report in court.
She also ordered Mr Ngugi taken to a psychiatrist at Embu County Referral Hospital for treatment.
“The case will be mentioned on March 15 and heard on May 18 this year,” said Justice Gitari.
