Suspect linked to Kirinyaga killer brewer denied bond

John Githua,70, went blind after consuming illicit brew in Kangai village, Kirinyaga county,He is receiving treatment at the Kerugoya referral hospital. [Jane Mugambi, Standard]

The High Court in Kerugoya has declined to release on bond a man linked to the Kangai killer brew that claimed 17 lives in February, pending hearing testimony from seven witnesses.

Justice Richard Mwongo Mwongo relied on a probation report that was tabled in court to determine whether John Muriithi was fit to be released back to society during a hearing on bond application.

According to the report, Muriithi who was charged with selling alcoholic drinks that were expired, had pending cases at the Baricho Court where he had been released on bond before the tragedy at Kangai.

Muriithi was arrested in Sagana town as he tried to flee after 17 people died while seven others turned blind after consuming the illicit brew in Kangai ward, Mwea constituency in February.

The report also stated that Muriithi is not fit to be in society as he is likely to be lynched by the public after his business premises were razed.

"It is his constitutional right to be bonded but after the report, his bond will be considered after the seven people who turned blind testify against him. He might be lynched if he is released and the court should issue a directive to have him placed in a secure place as the case continues," Mwongo said.