Eldoret High Court Orders Mental Evaluation for Four Suspects in Samwel Mugiro Murder Case
Mugiro was reported missing during local protests in Kipkaren estate, Kapseret sub-county, Uasin Gishu. His body was later found in River Kipkaren under suspicious circumstances
The four suspects appear in the dock at the Eldoret High Court on Friday, awaiting mental assessment orders in connection with the murder of Samwel Mugiro
The Eldoret High Court has mandated mental assessments for four individuals accused in the brutal killing of Samwel Mugiro, whose body was discovered in River Kipkaren last month. The suspects—Dennis Kiptoo, Elvis Kiptanui, Abiud Barkutwa, and Cornelius Keter—appeared before Deputy Registrar Carolyne Watima on Friday but did not enter pleas. The prosecution, led by G. Kirenge, requested the evaluations to determine the suspects’ fitness to stand trial.
Watima directed that the assessments be conducted at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) and scheduled the next court appearance for June 4, 2025, for plea taking. She also denied the suspects’ request for bond, citing the court’s lack of jurisdiction at this preliminary stage.
Family members of the deceased and human rights activists, including Kimutai Kirui, attended the court session, expressing deep concern over the case’s gravity.
Background: A Murder Amidst Protests
Mugiro was reported missing during local protests in Kipkaren estate, Kapseret sub-county, Uasin Gishu. His body was later found in River Kipkaren under suspicious circumstances. A postmortem at MTRH revealed multiple injuries consistent with assault, with drowning identified as the cause of death, indicating he was alive when thrown into the river.
Dr. Benson Macharia, MTRH resident pathologist, and Dr. Walter Nalianya, representing the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU), confirmed the findings, noting defensive injuries suggesting Mugiro resisted his attackers.
Calls for Justice and Broader Implications
The murder has intensified calls for justice, with human rights advocate Kimutai Kirui urging thorough investigations and transparency. He emphasized the need for swift and fair court proceedings to restore public trust in the justice system.
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