Five Kenyan police officers were charged on Wednesday for their alleged role in facilitating a jailbreak in Nairobi, which allowed a suspected serial killer and 12 other detainees to escape. The case, which has gripped the nation, brings into focus the integrity of the police force, as it involves a criminal accused of heinous acts of violence.
The police officers, who were on duty during the escape, are now at the center of an investigation that could have far-reaching consequences. Prosecutors have requested that the court detain these officers for two weeks while investigators continue their work. They aim to collect further evidence, including witness statements, CCTV footage, and an analysis of the officers’ phones.
The escape occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Among those who fled was Collins Jumaisi, a man recently arrested for the brutal murders of at least six women. The women’s bodies were found wrapped in plastic bags in an old quarry, now used as a rubbish dump. Jumaisi’s case had already captured widespread attention due to the horrifying nature of the crimes, but the jailbreak has intensified public outrage and fear.
Jumaisi’s arrest last month followed an investigation into the discovery of the women’s bodies. Initially, he allegedly confessed to the murders and even claimed responsibility for killing 42 women, including his wife. However, his lawyer has contested the confession, stating that Jumaisi was tortured into admitting to the crimes. Prosecutors, on the other hand, deny any mistreatment, further complicating an already controversial case.
The jailbreak has raised serious concerns about the involvement of insiders. Preliminary investigations suggest that the escape was not just a lapse in security but a deliberate act aided by those who were supposed to uphold the law. The police department has vowed to leave no stone unturned in this investigation, which could expose deeper issues within the force.
According to a police report obtained by Reuters, the jailbreak was discovered around 5:00 AM local time on Tuesday. The report details that Jumaisi and the 12 other escapees, all Eritrean nationals, were found missing from their cell. It is believed that they managed to cut through a wire mesh over the window in their cell, facilitating their escape. This discovery has led to a manhunt as authorities scramble to recapture the fugitives and restore public confidence.
