Three individuals accused of fatally beating and setting ablaze three young men in Machakos town have been remanded at Machakos GK Prison after pleading not guilty to murder charges.
The accused, Christopher Mwenda Robert, Dominic Muinde Paul, and Francis Mutinda Kimeu, appeared before High Court Judge Josephine Mong'are on July 29, 2026. They face three counts of murder relating to the deaths of Charles Kioko Mutiso, Kennedy Katuu Muthungu, and Stanley Mbithi Muthungu during a mob justice incident on May 31, 2026.
Justice Mong'are ordered that the suspects remain in custody for 30 days to allow for the preparation of a probation report to assess their eligibility for bail or bond. The prosecution and victims' families opposed bail, citing risks of interference with investigations and potential flight.
State Counsel Dennis Mang'are referenced an affidavit from investigating officer DCIO Henry Rabala, warning that the suspects might obstruct the inquiry. Advocate Mutava Musyoki, representing the victims' families, also highlighted the danger of witness tampering and flight risk. The defense lawyer, Gift Muteti, requested favorable bail or bond conditions.
The court directed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to file an affidavit opposing bail, with the defense to respond before further consideration. The case is set for mention on September 7, 2026, to confirm compliance, with hearings scheduled for June 7-9, 2027.
Case Background
The trio are among six initially arrested over the incident, which involved the lynching and burning of Kennedy Mutiso (29), his brother Stanley Muthungu (22), and family friend Charles Mutiso (25). The victims were attacked by a mob in Machakos town on the night of May 31, 2026.
Initial reports suggested the victims attempted to rob a miraa trader posing as passengers. However, investigations revealed they had been returning home after watching the UEFA Champions League final when one was hit by a vehicle.
Authorities allege that Christopher Mwenda, the vehicle’s driver, falsely claimed he was being carjacked. This claim incited boda boda riders and members of the public to attack the three men, who were then beaten, doused with petrol, and set on fire.
Following investigations, charges were approved by the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the case was transferred to the High Court. Meanwhile, three other suspects—Keith Mutuku Muli, Esther Mumbua Mwololo, and Yussuf Said—were released last month due to insufficient evidence.
