Nyandarua High Court Convicts Police Officer and Civilian in 2022 Manslaughter Case

 

By Esther Namarome 

The High Court in Nyandarua has found Police Constable Evans Motari—formerly stationed at the Kandutura Police Post—and his co-accused, James Njoroge, guilty of manslaughter in the 2022 death of Paul Mureithi. The ruling brings closure to a case that has drawn significant public interest for the past three years.

According to prosecution evidence, the fatal incident occurred late at night when Mureithi was confronted by the two men under circumstances the court described as “unclear but unlawful.” Witnesses testified that Mureithi suffered severe injuries during the encounter and later died while receiving medical treatment.

In her judgment, the presiding judge noted that medical reports, witness testimonies, and police records collectively painted a consistent picture placing the accused at the center of the events leading to Mureithi’s death. The court rejected the defence’s claim that the death was accidental, holding that the force used was excessive and unjustified.

Mureithi’s family, who have diligently attended proceedings since 2022, welcomed the verdict, saying it marked the end of a difficult wait for justice. Local human rights organisations also praised the judgment, describing it as a significant step toward enhancing accountability within the National Police Service, particularly in cases involving alleged abuse of power.

Constable Motari and Njoroge are now awaiting sentencing, expected in the coming weeks. Under Kenyan law, manslaughter carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, depending on the circumstances and degree of culpability.

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