By P, KNA
Siaya High Court today ordered the release of a university don and his co-accused on Sh500,000 bond each, pending the completion of investigations into a murder case in which they are suspects.
The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) professor, Francis Ang’awa Okere, along with co-accused Meshack Okuku Ondiege and Joash Odhiambo Ongoro, were directed by Justice David Kemei to report to the Bondo Directorate of Criminal Investigations every Monday until investigations are complete.
The court cautioned the accused against interfering with investigations or witnesses, warning that any breach would lead to cancellation of the bonds. Justice Kemei scheduled the matter for mention on February 10, 2026.
According to police, the trio is suspected of involvement in the murder of Denis Ambrose Achieng on November 15, 2025, along Orengo–Gul Min Ougo Murram Road in Nyaguda Sub-location, South Sakwa, Bondo Sub-county.
Earlier, the prosecution opposed the application for bond, citing concerns that the accused, together with others still at large, are suspected of having killed a key witness, Hezron Otieno Nyamburi. Nyamburi, 37, was abducted by unknown individuals at around 0930 hours from his home in Orengo Village and brutally murdered on January 16, 2026, heightening fear among remaining witnesses.
An affidavit sworn by the investigating officer indicated that upon being granted cash bail by Bondo Magistrate’s Court, where they were first arraigned, the accused began inquiring into the names and whereabouts of witnesses involved in the case.
“It has been difficult to engage other key witnesses as the accused persons have been going round tracing them with undisclosed motives,” read the affidavit, adding that “there is a need for them to remain in safe custody until key witnesses testify fully.”
The investigating officer further noted that efforts to place remaining key witnesses under witness protection would be undermined if the accused are released on bond before these measures are fully implemented.Bottom of Form