By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
This week, six witnesses testified in the murder trial of police officer Dancan Ndiema, also known as Champe.
Ndiema faced charges for the unfortunate death of 13-year-old Yasin Moyo, who was fatally shot while on the balcony of his family’s residence in Huruma during the COVID-19 lockdown, a period characterized by pervasive fear and uncertainty.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) presented six witnesses from September 17th to 19th 2024.
These include Yasin’s two sisters, his mother, father, and a neighbour.
The prosecution alleges that officer Ndiema fired the fatal shot in the Kiamaiko area of Huruma, Nairobi County.
Witnesses delivered heartfelt and moving testimonies, recounting the heartrending moment when Yasin called out to his mother, revealing that he had been shot. Their narratives also highlighted the family’s frantic attempts to preserve Yasin’s life, a tragedy that has profoundly affected all who were acquainted with the deceased.
According to the ODPP the emotional weight of these testimonies was palpable in the courtroom. The proceedings were interrupted several times to allow the family members to compose themselves, as their grief overwhelmed those present.
“Witnesses provided emotional and poignant testimony, recalling the heartbreaking moment when Yasin cried out to his mother, saying he had been shot. Their accounts also detailed the family’s desperate efforts to save Yasin’s life a tragedy that has left a lasting impact on everyone who knew the decease,” the ODPP stated.
This case is being prosecuted by Ms. Sarah Ogweno and Ms. Dela Wilbey.
Further hearings are scheduled for May 29th, July 8th, 15th, and 24th, 2025, as the quest for justice for Yasin continues, and support remains steadfast for his grieving family.
At the time of his death, Yasin was a Standard Eight student at Ndururuno Primary School. Like many other students, he was at home after schools closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The accused is currently out on a Sh1 million cash bail, with the condition that he does not interfere with witnesses scheduled to testify against him.