Milimani Court has ordered the continued detention of Rose Mbithe Mulwa, also known as Rose Mbithe Ndetei, and Chris Mulwa, who are persons of interest in the murder investigation of Dr Victoria Nthunya Mutiso. The detention will last until Monday, August 3, 2026, when the court will rule on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) request to hold them for 30 days.
Principal Magistrate Geoffrey Onsarigo gave the directive on Friday, July 31, 2026. Rose Mbithe will remain at Kilimani Police Station, while Chris Mulwa will be held at Kileleshwa Police Station. The court also allowed for family members to deliver any necessary medication to the detainees through the officers in charge of the respective stations.
The prosecution argued that extended detention is essential to protect witnesses, including the late doctor's husband, who is also the ex-husband of Rose Mbithe. The husband has yet to provide a full statement regarding threats made against Dr Mutiso and details about individuals who may have followed her before the fatal shooting.
"The emotional vulnerability of the deceased's husband requires safeguarding him from any intimidation, which could affect the completeness and reliability of his testimony," the prosecution stated.
Authorities also revealed that Chris Mulwa was found in possession of key items belonging to Dr Mutiso, which investigators believe he may have shared with unknown assailants responsible for the shooting.
In response, the defence counsel opposed the detention application, highlighting that both suspects have stable residences and are not flight risks. They also noted the prosecution did not specify which witnesses might be interfered with if the suspects were released.
The defence further clarified that Rose Mbithe divorced the deceased’s husband two decades ago, disputing any motive related to bitterness. They requested their release on condition that they report regularly to the nearest police station and continue cooperating with the investigation.
Magistrate Onsarigo announced the court will deliver its decision on the detention application on Monday, August 3, 2026, at 3 p.m.
