Five police officers in Kitui County are finally facing justice three years after a disturbing incident in which they allegedly stripped a man naked and assaulted his private parts. The officers—Inspector Daniel Mutua, Copro Benson Kimotho, and constables Kelvin Kirwa, Alfred Natire, and Dominic Mbagula—have been summoned to appear at the Kyuso Law Courts on December 18, 2024, for plea-taking.
The shocking incident occurred on October 18, 2021, when the officers arrested Japeth Mutinda Manzi at his home, accusing him of possessing a dangerous weapon. According to Manzi, he was taken to Ngungani Police Station, where the officers stripped him naked, beat him, and squeezed his genitals. The brutality left him hospitalized for four weeks.
“I was treated like an animal,” Manzi told a local TV station in an emotional interview three years ago. “I want justice for the pain and humiliation I endured.”
The case, which caused a public uproar at the time, prompted the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to launch an investigation. However, it took three years for the investigation to conclude and charges to be brought against the accused.
On December 2, 2024, Kyuso Magistrate Paul Mayova issued a warrant of arrest after the officers failed to appear in court for an initial hearing. Prosecutor Brian Kibui informed the court that plea-taking could not proceed because all five officers must be present to face the charges jointly. The court granted a new date for their appearance, now set for December 18.
One of the officers, Dominic Mbagula, who has since been transferred to Nairobi as a traffic officer, is reportedly the main suspect. Kitui County Police Commandant Leah Kibei has assured the public that the officers will comply with the court’s orders.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over police brutality in Kenya, with human rights groups calling for accountability and stricter measures to curb such violations. For Manzi, the scars of the assault remain both physical and emotional. “My life changed forever,” he said. “I hope the court will deliver justice, not just for me, but for all victims of police brutality.”
As the case heads to court, it remains a powerful reminder of the urgent need for reform in Kenya’s law enforcement system. Many hope this trial will set a precedent and send a strong message that no one is above the law.
