Police seek 10 days to hold women in undressing saga

Rose Lydia Opondo and Vivian Oka Mukoko in the dock at a Limuru Court. [George Njunge, Standard]

Police have sought 10 days to detain two women accused of undressing other women at a food processing company in Limuru.

Rose Lydia Opondo and Vivian Oka Mukoko are accused of undressing more than 30 women after a sanitary pad was disposed of improperly.

Felix Mutua, the investigating officer, swore an affidavit telling the court that the two were a flight risk since their place of abode was unknown.

The investigating officer further informed the court that the matter had generated much public interest, jeopardising the suspect's life.

"Your honour, this issue has generated a lot of interest in public, and it is in the best interest of the accused people that we hold them in custody for their safety," Mutua said

Mutua added that he had interviewed all 34 complainants allegedly undressed by the suspects and needed more guidance from the office of the DPP.

"The company has suspended the two from work. I am making a prayer that we be granted 10 days so that we finish up the investigations," Mutua said.

The prosecution did not object to the application but noted that 24 hours had lapsed since the arrests were made, which could have necessitated the application by the investigating officer.

"We agree that this matter has generated a lot of interest and dismay in the public, and we pray that the court grants the application," the prosecutor said.

The prosecutor added that Article 49 provided that any arrested person be brought before the court before the expiry of 24 hours and that every person has the right to be released on reasonable bail and bond terms.

The suspects were remanded at Tigoni police station.