The notorious Kware murders case has taken a dramatic turn as suspect Collins Jumaisi Khalusha has alleged police brutality and forced confession.
Khalusha, accused of the heinous crime of killing at least 42 women and dismembering their bodies before dumping them in a quarry in Kware area, Embakasi South, appeared in court on July 16, 2024, to make these serious allegations.
Represented by his lawyer John Maina Ndegwa, Khalusha claimed that he was subjected to severe torture and molestation by the police to extract a confession.
“My client, as he sits there, is in dire need of urgent medical attention…for reasons that the period under detention, he was subjected to molestation, torture, and the confession that the public is being treated to having murdered 42 persons is laughable,” Ndegwa argued before the Makadara Law Courts.
He pleaded with the court to ensure Khalusha received immediate medical care.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) firmly denied these allegations, maintaining that only one officer was assigned to take Khalusha’s statement.
The DCI sought the court’s permission to detain Khalusha for an additional 30 days, arguing that releasing him could jeopardize the ongoing investigation.
They emphasized the need for more time to trace witnesses and families of the victims, conduct DNA sampling, organize an identification parade, and carry out a mental assessment of the suspect.
DCI representatives asserted, “The extension is crucial to thoroughly investigate and ensure justice for the victims and their families. Premature release of the suspect could lead to potential continuation of his criminal activities.”
In contrast, the defense vehemently opposed the 30-day detention extension, pushing for a shorter 14-day period. Lawyer Ndegwa criticized the DCI’s request as speculative and lacking concrete evidence, advocating for his client’s right to a fair trial under Article 50 of the Kenyan Constitution.
“Whereas the IO and prosecution have the right to conduct investigations, my client under Article 50 has a right to a fair trial and they cannot have all the time they wish in this world. We will not be conceding to the 30 days; we will be asking for 14 days,” Ndegwa insisted.
After considering both arguments, Principal Magistrate Irene Gichobi ruled in favor of the DCI, granting the 30-day detention to allow completion of the investigations.
