The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The High Court has given IG Douglas Kanja and DCI Director Mohamed Amin one final opportunity to release four missing men who were allegedly detained in Mlolongo, Machakos County, last December.
Judge Chacha Mwita warned that he would impose sanctions on the two officials if they failed to comply.
This is the second case where Kanja and Amin are under scrutiny for their involvement in missing persons’ cases. Judge Mwita emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that state officers have a duty to uphold the constitution.
Last Thursday, Judge Mwita ordered the immediate and unconditional release of Justus Mutumwa, Martin Mwau, and Karani Muema, who were arrested in mid-December, as their detention exceeded constitutional limits. He further instructed the IG and DCI to produce the bodies of the three men in court by January 13, whether alive or dead.
However, when the case was called in court today, neither the IG, DCI, nor the Attorney General were present, despite being served with the notice on January 9. The DPP was the only representative in court. Judge Mwita expressed disappointment at their absence and indicated this failure to attend court, despite proper notification, was a serious violation that could lead to sanctions.
The judge reiterated that the top police officials have a responsibility to protect citizens and that their silence and non-compliance were unacceptable. He gave Kanja and Amin one last chance to release the detained men or present their bodies before the court.
Additionally, the court removed Steven Kavingo from the list of petitioners, as he is involved in a similar case before another judge, Justice Bahati Mwamuye. In that case, Mwamuye has also given Kanja and Amin a final chance to appear in court or face contempt charges. The matter will be heard on January 27.
Finally, Judge Mwita ordered that Kanja and Amin personally appear in court on January 17 to address the issue of the Mlolongo detainees.
