Retired Commissioner of Police Michael Mbugua and two co-accused individuals have been granted cash bail of Ksh.100,000 each in a murder case involving the death of a farmhand. The three Michael Mbugua, Christopher Njau Mbugua, and Charles Kinyanjui Mbugua are accused of killing George Njui, a casual laborer, on December 23, 2024, in Riruta, Dagoretti, Nairobi County.
The accused were initially remanded but later applied for a review of their bail terms. The court approved the request, allowing them to secure their temporary release as they await trial. All three suspects pleaded not guilty to the murder charges.
The incident allegedly stemmed from accusations that the deceased, George Njui, had stolen a wire mesh valued at Ksh.1,000 from the property where he was employed. Details presented in court suggest that following the accusation, the confrontation escalated, resulting in Njui’s death.
According to preliminary investigations, the circumstances surrounding Njui’s death have raised serious concerns regarding the use of excessive force and possible abuse of authority, especially given the involvement of a former high-ranking police officer. The prosecution alleges that the actions taken against Njui were disproportionate to the alleged theft, leading to fatal consequences.
The case has drawn public attention due to the stature of the main accused, a former police commissioner, and the nature of the alleged offense. Human rights advocates have called for a thorough and transparent investigation, emphasizing the need for justice to prevail regardless of the social or professional status of the accused.
In an unusual but significant move, the court has scheduled the hearing to take place at the scene of the alleged crime on July 23, 2025. Legal experts believe this decision may help clarify conflicting accounts of the events leading to the death.
As the case proceeds, both the prosecution and the defense are expected to present critical evidence and witness testimonies. The outcome will not only determine the fate of the accused but may also reflect broader issues of justice, accountability, and human rights in Kenya’s legal system.