By Dorothy Musyoka
In a landmark ruling, the High Court in Kisumu has sentenced four individuals to lengthy prison terms for their involvement in brutal murders across the county.
The convictions, presided over by Lady Justice Shariff Mwanaisha, mark a significant step in ensuring justice for the victims and their families.
The prosecution, led by Ms. Mercy Mutheu Muema and Ms. Elvin Mogoa, presented compelling evidence that sealed the fate of the convicts.
Basil Omondi Otieno, also known as Aboi, received a 30-year prison term for the murder of Ismael Salle Asman in Kombedu village.
“Basil Omondi Otieno, also known as Aboi, was handed a 30-year sentence for the brutal murder of Ismael Salle Asman in Kombedu village. Otieno fatally stabbed Asman multiple times in the chest during a confrontation and then fled the scene. He managed to evade arrest for a year before being apprehended,” explained the ODPP.
The prosecution provided irrefutable evidence, including witness testimonies and forensic analysis, confirming that Asman succumbed to internal bleeding caused by deep stab wounds.
Justice Shariff, in her ruling, decried the brutality of the crime and imposed a heavy custodial sentence to serve as a deterrent.
In a separate case, Ouma Alfayo Marenya was sentenced to 30 years in prison for the murder of Vincent Thomas Otieno, commonly known as Chief, at Gudka Car Wash.
“During an altercation outside a butcher shop, Marenya fatally stabbed Otieno in the abdomen, causing severe internal injuries. Despite attempts to save him, Otieno succumbed to his injuries,” noted the ODPP.
Justice Shariff emphasized the gravity of the crime, ruling that the prosecution had presented indisputable evidence proving Marenya’s direct involvement in Otieno’s death.
The court determined that the severity of the offense warranted a 30-year custodial sentence.
Richard Akombo Gori, alias Bahati, received a 35-year prison term for the premeditated murder of Kevin Ohiambo Odinga.
Gori, along with accomplices who remain at large, abducted Odinga from his home and subjected him to a brutal assault before setting his body on fire. His remains were discovered the following day.
“The prosecution provided overwhelming evidence, including forensic findings and witness testimony, confirming that Odinga died due to the severe assault and burns inflicted by Gori and his associates,” noted the ODPP.
In another tragic case, Robert Kipyegon Korir and Geoffrey Kipyegon Mutai were each sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murder of Dennis Kiplangat Rono in Kadinda/Kambeje Village.
“Lastly, Robert Kipyegon Korir and Geoffrey Kipyegon Mutai were each sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murder of Dennis Kiplangat Rono in Kadinda/Kambeje Village. Following a dispute over Ksh 800, the two men violently assaulted Rono, causing severe head injuries. Rono died after being left unattended overnight,” the ODPP stated.
Justice Shariff expressed concern over the negligence displayed by the perpetrators and imposed a stern sentence as a warning against such reckless violence.