The Kitale Court orders for age Verification in Shocking cannibalism case

Katewinslet Oyato 

In a chilling case that has gripped the Nation, 12 Ugandan Nationals were arraigned at the Kitale Law Courts on Tuesday, over allegations of abduction, murder, and cannibalism involving school going children in Kapenguria, West Pokot .

Appearing before Chief Magistrate Samuel Mokua, the suspects ageed between 10 and 50 did not take plea. 

The investigations led by Sergeant Edward Ndemo, requested 30 additional days to complete investigations. The magistrate ordered six of the suspects believed to be minors undergo mandatory medical age assessments within two days, while the remaining six adults were remanded for two weeks.

The accused include Vincent Masika, Monica Cheptoo, Ruth Nalinda, Noel Khakwana, Stephen Khamnoo, Wilson Poisho, Brian Kibet, Steven Karanja, Martha Cheyech, Paul M. Nabui, Emmanuel Ambale, and Leonard Ambalia.

Police reports indicate the suspects confessed to abducting and killing eight children, allegedly consuming their remains. 

However, no bodies were recovered at the time of arrest, and investigators suspect the remains may have been disposed of in a toilet.

The arrests sparked violent protests in Kapenguria, with enraged residents attempting to storm the police station where the suspects were initially held. 

Authorities were forced to transfer the suspects to Kitale Police Station for their safety. Demonstrators blocked the Kitale-Lodwar Road, demanding mob justice and the deportation of all Ugandan nationals from the region.

Recovered items from the suspects’ hideout included children’s clothes, school uniforms, and ropes allegedly used in the abductions. 

In a heartbreaking moment, a mother whose son went missing in 2006 identified his clothing among the recovered items, reigniting painful memories and community.

West Pokot County Criminal Investigations Officer Daniel Musangi stated, "police are seeking a court order to excavate the suspected dump site for forensic evidence. The investigation has been hampered by the destruction of the suspects’ homes by angry locals, potentially compromising key evidence."

This case continues to unfold, with the nation watching closely as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the crimes and deliver justice to the victims and their families.