A 31-year-old school driver accused of defiling a three-year-old playgroup pupil in Katuyo, Ainabkoi, Uasin Gishu County, will remain in police custody for seven more days as investigations continue.
Eldoret Law Court Senior Principal Magistrate Mogire Onkoba ordered that the suspect, Bernard Kipkorir Mutai, be held at Naiberi Police Station until May 21, when the case will be mentioned for further directions.
Mutai is alleged to have committed the offence on Thursday last week while dropping the minor home from school. He was arrested on May 12 while continuing with his normal duties of transporting pupils.
While the prosecution, led by State Counsel Patrick Onjoro and Investigation Officer Corporal Ruth Juma, had requested a 14-day detention period, the Magistrate allowed only seven days. He ruled that the investigators did not sufficiently justify the need for a longer period.
However, the court acknowledged concerns about the suspect’s safety, with the prosecution stating that the community is hostile and his life is at risk. "Now that there is indication on oath that the ground is not conducive for the immediate return of the suspect, I will not assume that and allow him to go back to the same environment where I am told his life might be in danger. I have a responsibility to preserve life," said Magistrate Onkoba.
The Magistrate further noted that the detention was also in the best interest of the minor and necessary to allow police to complete critical parts of the investigation, including recording statements from key witnesses, conducting an age assessment of the child, and completing the medical examination form (P3).
Defense lawyer Obuodho opposed the application, arguing that the prosecution’s grounds were speculative and not compelling. "There is no prejudice alleged about the safety of the complainant. My client does not feel insecure and wants to be released on bond," he said.
Meanwhile, human rights advocates, including Kimutai Kirui and Uasin Gishu Nominated MCA Regina Chumba, have condemned the incident and called for swift and thorough investigations. They also expressed concern over the rising cases of defilement in the region and urged authorities to take urgent action to protect minors.
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