Two Nigerians Released Amid Kenyan Student Murder Probe

Two Nigerians Released Amid Kenyan Student Murder Probe

In a dramatic turn of events, a Makadara court in Nairobi, Kenya has released two Nigerian nationals who were detained in connection with the tragic murder of university student Rita Waeni Muendo, pending the outcome of DNA tests….READ ALSO Nigerians Anticipate More Days Of Excessive Heat — NiMETP

The dismembered remains of the 20-year-old student were shockingly discovered concealed in rubbish bags within an apartment on TRM Drive, Kasarani, as reported by LIB. Despite the gruesome nature of the crime, the suspects absconded with crucial evidence including the victim’s head, phones, and personal belongings.

Principal Magistrate Agnes Mwangi delivered the decision to release the two individuals on Thursday, February 15, 2024, emphasizing that their freedom would be contingent upon the forthcoming results of the DNA analysis.

Initially granted a 21-day detention period by the court on January 31, William Ovie Opia and Johnbull Asbor were subjected to DNA sampling to ascertain any potential match with the deceased. Additionally, the police requested an extension to examine the suspects’ electronic devices including sim cards, laptops, and phones.

During the court proceedings on Thursday, Magistrate Mwangi was apprised that investigations had concluded, with the DNA tests remaining the only outstanding aspect.

Represented by their legal counsel Victor Obuli, the defendants petitioned the court for their release and the return of their confiscated phones. Granting their request, Magistrate Mwangi stipulated that they report to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) every Wednesday until the DNA results are available.

Furthermore, the court mandated the police to return the suspects’ phones, signaling a shift in the legal proceedings pending the definitive forensic evidence.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) uncovered that both Nigerians were residing in Kenya unlawfully, with Asbor reportedly losing his passport two years ago. Detectives traced the suspects to an apartment in Ndenderu, Kiambu County, where they were apprehended.

Constable Benjamin Wangila of the Kasarani DCI office disclosed to the court that the suspects’ proximity to the crime scene raised suspicions, particularly given the discovery of incriminating items such as a hatchet, butcher’s knife, and an assortment of electronic devices.

With the investigation team intensifying efforts to establish connections between the suspects and the crime, including analyzing call data records and conducting DNA comparisons, the case is set to reconvene on March 14, 2024, to unveil the outcome of the crucial DNA tests.

Amid the legal proceedings, Rita Waeni Muendo was laid to rest in a private ceremony at her family’s residence in Mukimwani Village, Kisau location, Makueni County, underscoring the profound impact of her untimely demise on her grieving loved ones.