Two policemen to be charged for murder of teenager

The High Court in Malindi has issued a warrant to arrest two police officers accused of killing a youth in Kaloleni last year.

Officers Simeon Oyoo Ayodo and Amos Kiptoo Kipsang have been asked to surrender to court where they have been indicted for the murder of Katana Kazungu.

Katana’s killing last year sparked protests from residents. Police initially denied responsibility before changing tune to suggest that Katana was shot by mistake when officers received news that unknown people had stolen a truck.

But officials of human rights groups accused the officers of recklessly opening fire at a group of youths who were trying to push a truck laden with ballast that was stuck in the mud.

Resident Judge Weldon Korir issued the orders as requested by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).

“A warrant of arrest has been issued against the accused persons as prayed. Mention will be on February 12, 2019 to confirm compliance,” stated Justice Korir in the warrant dated January 28.

The prosecution had gone to the Malindi High Court after the Mombasa High Court said the matter should be filed there.

The DPP had written to the court requesting for the arrest of the officers over Katana’s shooting in Tsangatsini area.

“This matter was initially requested before the High Court in Mombasa. However, the court referred that the matter be requested in Malindi. I have attached the order for perusal and records,” stated a letter to the Malindi High Court by Alice Mathangani for the DPP.

Ms Mathangani further said in the letter that the court was to issue warrants of arrest against the two, and that the warrant be addressed to the County Criminal Investigation Officer, Kilifi County.

“This is to enable us ensure that the accused persons are produced in court to take plea,” stated the letter that was also copied to the Independent Police Oversight Authority.