A couple has been charged with nine counts of murder following a deadly arson attack that claimed the lives of an entire family in Upanda village, Siaya County, in April 2024. Christopher Owino and his wife, Roseline Atieno, appeared before Justice David Kemei at the Siaya High Court, where they denied any involvement in the deaths of Ouma Opondo Adalla, his wife Jecinter Anyango, and their seven children.
The victims, aged between six months and 17 years, perished in a horrific blaze that engulfed their home on the night of April 23. The children were identified as Seline Atieno, Lyon Otieno, Loela Atieno, Loice Achieng, Davis Ochieng, Rayan Odhiambo, and Melvin Ochieng. The incident shocked the nation and sparked public outcry over rising insecurity in rural communities.
Through their lawyer, Owino and Atieno applied for a cash bail of Ksh.500,000, assuring the court of their willingness to comply with any conditions imposed. However, the prosecution opposed the request, stating that they had yet to file a required affidavit to guide the court’s decision on bail.
Justice Kemei scheduled June 9, 2025, as the date for ruling on whether the couple will be granted bail. Meanwhile, the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue into the motive behind the brutal attack.
The nine victims were laid to rest on May 9 in a tearful ceremony attended by relatives, friends, and local leaders. Community members have urged the judiciary to expedite the legal process and deliver justice to the grieving family.
The deaths have reignited calls for better security and conflict resolution mechanisms in rural areas, with leaders emphasizing the need to address underlying disputes that may lead to such violence.
As the case unfolds, all eyes remain on the Siaya High Court, where the families and the wider public are hoping for a transparent and fair trial that delivers justice for the slain family.
