By Dorothy Musyoka
The Kisii High Court has delivered justice in the horrific lynching of four elderly individuals accused of witchcraft in Banda Sub-location, Marani Sub-County, Kisii County.
Hon. Justice Kiarie handed down stiff sentences to the four perpetrators, bringing closure to the tragic events of October 17, 2021.
The convicts, Amos Nyakundi Ondieki, Chrispine Makwaro Ogeto, Hesbon Ogondi Gichana, and Evans Ogeto Okari were found guilty of orchestrating the brutal murder of Jemima Mironga (60), Agnes Ototo (57), Sigara Onkware (62), and Sidenge Mayaka (85).
“On that tragic day, Amos Nyakundi Ondiek, Chrispine Makwaro Ogeto, Hesbon Ogondi Gichana, and Evans Ogeto Okari were apprehended following alarming reports from the area Assistant Chief,” the DCI stated.
The victims were attacked and burned beyond recognition by a mob after being accused of practising witchcraft.
“The initial report revealed that two people had been lynched on suspicion of practising witchcraft. Upon arrival at the scene, police found two more victims, their bodies burned beyond recognition,” added the DCI.
Police responded to reports from the area Assistant Chief, discovering the horrifying scene where two victims were already dead, and two more succumbed shortly after.
A thorough investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Marani led to the arrest and prosecution of the four suspects.
In the landmark ruling, Justice Kiarie sentenced Amos Nyakundi Ondieki, Hesbon Ogondi Gichana, and Evans Ogeto Okari to 40 years in prison for each count of murder, with the sentences running concurrently.
Additionally, Chrispine Makwaro Ogeto received a 15-year sentence for each count, also served concurrently.
The case investigated by detectives from DCI Marani has been ongoing for the last three years.