The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has applied to the court seeking a 15-day custodial order for four suspects linked to the abduction of Juja Member of Parliament, George Koimburi.
The suspects Peter Kiratu, David Macharia, Cyrus Kieru, and Grace Nduta are all Members of the County Assembly from Kanyenya-ini Ward in Murang’a County.
They are alleged to have been involved in the kidnapping of the legislator.
Appearing before Magistrate Caroline Nyaguthi Mugo, the investigating officer requested the custodial period to allow for the completion of investigations.
He informed the court that several electronic gadgets had been seized from the suspects and were yet to undergo forensic examination.
The court was also told that MP Koimburi is currently admitted to Karen Hospital in serious condition following the alleged abduction.
However, the application by the DCI was strongly opposed by the defence team. The lawyers argued that no tangible evidence had been presented to warrant custodial detention.
They maintained that the suspects would neither interfere with investigations nor contribute to the forensic analysis of the seized gadgets.
The defence also informed the court that the DCI had previously recommended that the suspects be charged with terrorism and kidnapping. However, upon reviewing the file, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) declined to approve any charges, citing insufficient evidence.
Despite no charges being filed, the suspects were produced at the Kahawa Law Courts while the file was still under consideration by the DPP.
The defence counsel urged the court to release the suspects unconditionally or on personal bond so they could reunite with their families.
The court is expected to deliver its ruling on the DCI’s application at 2:30 p.m.
