Woman murdered in Machakos, prime suspect arrested

In a landmark ruling on 20 November 2023, the Machakos Law Courts convicted Abed Muema, alias Kauta , for two counts of violent robbery. The magistrate, C. N. Ondieki, found the accused guilty after determining that the prosecution had clearly established his identity and role in an armed raid in Mwala Sub‑County, Machakos County. Muema was accused of attacking two women at night, threatening them with a panga, and stealing cash, a keg bump, and mobile phones. Kenya Law
The court heard from several witnesses, including the victims, Josephine Mbula Mutisya and Eunice Nthambi Mutisya, who testified that on 18 May 2019, Muema entered their compound, demanded their money, and warned them not to raise the alarm. Kenya Law The prosecution argued that the attack was premeditated, and pointed to Muema’s repeated threats after the robbery as evidence of his dangerous intent. Kenya Law In turn, Muema denied the charges, claiming a personal grudge — saying that he used to be romantically involved with Eunice Nthambi, but felt betrayed when she ended the relationship. Kenya Law
Magistrate Ondieki ruled that the testimony of the victims was consistent, credible, and supported the elements of robbery with violence under Kenyan law. Kenya Law The judge emphasised that Muema’s identity had been properly established, leaving little doubt that he was the perpetrator. Kenya Law As a result, he was convicted on both counts under section 296(2) of the Penal Code. Kenya Law
This conviction sends a powerful message to criminal actors in Machakos County and beyond: violent theft will not be tolerated, especially when victims are clearly identified and willing to testify. Authorities hope the sentence will bolster public confidence in the justice system and encourage more crime reporting, especially in rural and semi-urban areas where such attacks are often underreported.