Human Rights Groups Condemn Delays in Kware Murders Investigation

Human rights advocates, spearheaded by the Mukuru Social Justice Centre, have issued strong criticism regarding the government's sluggish response to the Kware murders investigation.

In their newly published report, "Kware the Aftermath," the organizations asserts that governmental authorities are deliberately impeding justice for the victims and their families. The horrific case emerged approximately three months ago with the discovery of human remains in Kware, located within Mukuru kwa Njenga. The primary suspect, Collins Jumaisi, was apprehended but subsequently escaped from custody, severely hampering investigative progress. According to investigators, Jumaisi allegedly murdered his wife in 2022 and concealed her remains in a pit near his residence.

While initial police statements indicated that Jumaisi confessed to 42 murders, he later retracted these admissions, claiming they were obtained under duress. The investigation has been marked by significant challenges and alleged interference. First responders engaged in body recovery efforts reported experiencing intimidation and threats during their work at the quarry site. The Mukuru Social Justice Centre persisted with recovery operations for two weeks until the Directorate of Criminal Investigations intervened, mandating a pause to coordinate with Nairobi's disaster management team.

Community tensions escalated following the discovery of nine bodies on the initial day of investigation, resulting in violent confrontations with law enforcement. According to Centre representatives, instances of police brutality increased notably during this period. The organization documented multiple attempts to obstruct their search efforts, including direct threats of arrest against volunteers and harassment from unidentified individuals. The situation deteriorated further when police action resulted in fifteen shooting victims, including one fatality.

Currently, four Mukuru families continue their desperate search for missing relatives. The Centre has issued an urgent appeal for public solidarity in defending civil rights. The case has generated widespread public indignation and demands for accountability, particularly following the suspect's escape from Gigiri police station on August 20. Human rights organizations are pressing for expedited action, urging authorities to deploy resources effectively and conduct thorough, unbiased investigations.