The prime suspect in the murder of Multimedia University student Erick Mutinda has been detained for 21 more days for the police to complete investigations for the murder of Sylvia Kemunto.
The suspect was arrested on April 4, 2025, in Sultan Hamud after the body of Kemunto was found in a rooftop water tank.
The prosecution of the case while seeking a custodial order stated they are investigating a murder and believe the suspect may have committed the offence.
The family’s lawyers, Danstan Omari and Shadrach Wamboi, told the court that the family was devastated by the loss.
They described the crime as femicide and cautioned of its broader implications for the safety of women.
“Take judicial notice that the offence is alleged to have been committed within Multimedia University, an institution where every parent sends their daughter believing it is to be a haven”, he submitted.
The defense opposed the prosecution’s application, arguing that the accused had not been formally charged and his rights should not be infringed.
The defense also noted that continued detention beyond the date of arrest would amount to a violation of his constitutional rights.
The further informed the court that Mutinda is willing to cooperate fully with investigations, including undergoing blood tests and the autopsy process.
The court, however acknowledged the gravity of the offence stating that a life was lost and emphasized the importance of giving investigators adequate time to complete their work.
The accused will be held at the Capitol Hill Police Station.
The matter will be mentioned on April 28, 2025.
