A former Harambee Stars midfielder is fighting to secure bail after spending more than a year in remand over the alleged murder of a young child.
Collins “Gattuso” Okoth, who previously played for Gor Mahia and the national team, was arrested in May 2024 alongside co-accused Sylvia Aoko. The two face charges of murdering three-year-old Pamela Atieno, also known as Scovian Maya, between April 21 and April 22, 2024, at Kwetu Apartments in Sinai, Lucky Summer, Nairobi.
During a court appearance before Justice Alexander Muteti, Okoth’s legal team argued that bail is a constitutional right and that previous reasons for its denial were no longer valid. His lawyer stated that fears raised by the investigating officer—mainly the possibility of witness interference—had been addressed, as key witnesses had already testified. The defence urged the court to strike a balance and release the former footballer on reasonable terms.
The prosecution opposed the request, claiming Okoth had no fixed residence and posed a flight risk. They argued he was living in a rented house in Lucky Summer and had plans to relocate before his arrest. The defence dismissed this as unproven, insisting Okoth was a public figure with strong ties to Kenya.
Sylvia’s lawyer also sought bail, highlighting her cooperation with authorities from the start and her willingness to abide by any conditions the court might impose. He pointed out that she has family connections in Siaya County, which remains within the court’s jurisdiction.
The prosecution countered that Sylvia had no permanent residence in Nairobi and was a potential flight risk. They alleged she left the home she shared with the victim’s mother under the guise of seeking work as a househelp.
Both accused persons maintain their innocence, with their lawyers emphasising that murder is a bailable offence and that continued detention is unnecessary. Sylvia’s legal team also requested lenient terms, citing her humble background and limited financial means.
Justice Muteti is set to rule on the bail applications on September 17, the same day the murder trial will proceed. Until then, Okoth remains in Industrial Area Remand Prison while Sylvia is held at Lang’ata Women’s Prison, both hoping for a chance at temporary freedom.
