Detectives in Mombasa have summoned senior officials from Mombasa County in connection with the recent abduction and sexual assault of Bruce John Kajira, a blogger known for his critical stance against the county governor.
According to Capital News, the incident occurred on September 12th. Kajira was allegedly abducted from his residence in Bamburi Mwisho by a group of at least 10 individuals.
In a statement on Monday, the DCI said, “Senior Mombasa County Government officials, believed to have collaborated with the perpetrators of the heinous acts, have been summoned with a view to establish their roles and charge them accordingly.”
According to the DCI, the attackers forcibly entered Kajira’s home by breaking down the door. To avoid raising suspicion, they allegedly deceived him by claiming they were taking him to the Mombasa County Governor to apologize for a social media post in which Kajira allegedly insulted the governor and his family.
Kajira was then abducted, taken to an undisclosed location, and subjected to assault and sexual abuse. The DCI added that once the attackers were done, they placed Kajira inside a sack and dumped him unconscious in a thicket. Later that evening, Kajira regained consciousness and was assisted by a Good Samaritan, who helped him return home.
Kajira was initially taken to Coast General and Referral Hospital, but he was allegedly denied treatment. His friends later took him to Beyond Scope Hospital in Kisauni, where he was admitted for care.
Four suspects Abdul Hassan Athman, Esther Muthoni, Violet Adera, and Haji Babu Ndau Mohamed were on Monday arrested and presented in court in connection with the crime.
The suspects were arraigned at Shanzu Law Courts, where they faced multiple charges including conspiracy to commit a felony, abduction with intent to confine, gang rape, assault, and causing actual bodily harm.
All four suspects pleaded not guilty, and the court has adjourned the matter until September 26, 2024, when it will rule on their application for bond or bail. In the meantime, the accused have been remanded at Shimo la Tewa Prison.
Investigations into the case are still ongoing, with additional suspects expected to be arrested and charged in connection to the crime. Detectives are continuing to gather evidence to ensure justice is served.