Kenyan Court of Justice Issues Detention Order for British Subject in Young Mother's Homicide
Rose Wanyua
A Kenyan High Court has approved an arrest warrant for a UK citizen allegedly involved in the death of a 21-year-old mother more than ten years past.
The victim, Agnes Wanjiru, died in the spring of 2012, and her remains were discovered in a sewage pit of a hotel in the army base city of Nanyuki about three months after she had reportedly enjoyed an night socializing with British soldiers.
The presiding judge stated that the prosecution presented adequate grounds to request that the individual be present before a local court for a court case.
Legal counsel for the victim's relatives, Kamau Mbiu, told the press that the ruling paved the way for extradition processes to begin for the suspect's extradition from the United Kingdom.
"It is welcomed, but we urge greater transparency, as this remains a matter of public concern," the lawyer commented.
The judge directed that the details of the individual and witnesses not be published, stating this was essential in order to protect the integrity of the proceedings.
In a statement, a UK government spokesperson remarked: "Our thoughts remain with the loved ones of Agnes, and we continue to be devoted to helping them secure justice."
The spokesperson said that no further comment would be made at now because of the ongoing legal proceedings.
The UK's Ministry of Defence has previously said it is working alongside the Kenyan investigation into the case, which has caused outrage in the country.
Her loved ones, who had a small girl, have for years struggled for justice.
Based in Nanyuki, which is adjacent to the UK military training base - approximately 125 miles from the Nairobi.
Ms. Wanjiru's niece, Njoki, told news sources that the decision felt like "bittersweet news", stating the extradition process could require patience.
Authorities informed the tribunal that people currently based in the Britain would be made available for the trial, ensuring that it could proceed.
A London attorney, Tessa Gregory, stated it now called upon "the government to do everything in its power to make certain the accused can be extradited and face trial in Kenya as soon as possible."
- Related: Murder case sparks public anger concerning claims of military secrecy
- Kenyans file a lawsuit against foreign troops over blaze in nature reserve
