KNCHR urges transparency in Kware murder investigations

 According to a media statement issued by the Commission on Tuesday, the bodies were found dismembered and wrapped in sacks and black polythene bags. 

Detectives have since arrested a suspect who allegedly confessed to the murders of 42 women, with ten bodies recovered thus far.

The Rights Group strongly condemned these brutal acts and offered condolences to the families involved. 

At the same time, they expressed concern about the quarry fire, which they believe will impede thorough investigations. 

KNCHR also spoke out against extrajudicial killings in light of these events and the recent discovery of Denzel Omondi's body in a Juja quarry, calling for comprehensive forensic investigations to determine the cause and timing of deaths, in accordance with the Minnesota Protocol. 

The Commission also emphasised transparency and accountability throughout the investigation process, particularly during post-mortem examinations, and encouraged relatives of missing people to undergo DNA testing to help identify the deceased.

The Commission asked Parliament and the Treasury for funds to support a thorough investigation into suspected cases of extra-judicial killings and involuntary deaths, emphasising the importance of truth and closure for affected families.

The KNCHR also provided an update on the anti-finance bill protests, which have been ongoing since June 18th, 2024. 

They reported fifty deaths in various counties, including Nairobi, Nakuru, and Mombasa. 

Additionally, 413 people have been injured. 

Despite repeated calls to end abductions and arbitrary arrests, the KNCHR reported that 59 people have been abducted or are missing, and 682 have been arbitrarily detained. 

The Commission condemned these actions and called for the immediate release of all illegally detained individuals. 

They have requested court orders for Habeas Corpus to ensure accountability for the missing and abducted people.

The KNCHR urged the Inspector General of Police, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to expedite investigations and prosecutions of all individuals involved in human rights violations during the protests, while emphasising transparency and regular updates.