High Court Jails Kenyan Police Officer for 30 Years in Manslaughter Case

The incident took place on May 24, 2020, at Equator Springs Hotel in Gwa Kungu, Nyahururu, where officer William Muriuki Nyaga, acting without confirming any accusations, joined others in assaulting Stephen Ndiuni. Despite the victim's repeated claims of innocence, Nyaga allegedly used boots and a stick to inflict severe blows, leaving Ndiuni gravely wounded and helpless—he died painfully overnight after being abandoned.

The original murder charge against Nyaga and two civilians was downgraded to manslaughter, as prosecutors could not establish malice aforethought. Justice Kiarie W. Kiarie condemned the officer for grossly abusing his position of authority and failing to uphold the duty to protect life. The court emphasized that Nyaga, entrusted by the public to safeguard citizens, instead betrayed that trust through extreme brutality. Investigations by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) supported the case, with the International Justice Mission (IJM) – Kenya providing legal support to the victim's family.

In delivering the punishment, the judge highlighted the officer's betrayal, noting that those given significant responsibility must face severe consequences for such failures. Another judicial observation described the act as leaving the victim to endure a slow, agonizing death. This ruling underscores ongoing efforts to address police accountability in Kenya, with the case drawing attention to the misuse of power by law enforcement officials.

In delivering the punishment, the judge highlighted the officer's betrayal, noting that those given significant responsibility must face severe consequences for such failures. Another judicial observation described the act as leaving the victim to endure a slow, agonizing death. This ruling underscores ongoing efforts to address police accountability in Kenya, with the case drawing attention to the misuse of power by law enforcement officials.