In a landmark ruling at the Kisumu High Court, Justice Helen Aburiri has sentenced Isaac Kiptoo Rono, alias Malakwen, and Julius Mengich Kipyegon to life imprisonment for the heinous murder of George Anyango, also known as Bengo, the manager at retired Justice Effie Owuor's Muhoroni farm.
The chilling incident occurred on November 17, 2018, when the two assailants, armed with machetes, ambushed and brutally attacked Bengo at the farm.
The attack resulted in multiple injuries before culminating in the tragic slitting of Bengo's throat.
During the assault, Paul Owuor, the Judge's son, who had accompanied Bengo, valiantly attempted to repel the attackers by firing his licensed firearm.
Unfortunately, his efforts were thwarted when his firearm malfunctioned, leaving him vulnerable to the assailants' onslaught.
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In a separate charge of attempted murder, Paul recounted the harrowing experience, detailing how a deep cut to his abdomen threatened his life.
Remarkably, Paul managed to use his shirt to staunch the bleeding and screamed for assistance.
Promptly rushed to the hospital by a tractor driver, his life was narrowly saved.
The Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) expressed satisfaction with the court's decision, emphasizing the significance of delivering justice to Bengo's family.
"We welcome the sentence awarded to the two murderers by Justice Helen Aburiri of the Kisumu High Court, with the hope that Bengo's family will be comforted by the delivery of justice to their kin," the DCI stated.
The DCI further applauded the diligent efforts of the security forces in Kisumu and Nandi counties, led by the DCI homicide team, in tracking down, arresting, and arraigning the suspects in accordance with the law.
The collaborative effort between law enforcement and the public played a pivotal role in achieving this successful outcome.
Acknowledging the public's role, the DCI extended gratitude, stating, "We also commend members of the public for being calm and patient throughout the trial period, and for being our valued partners in information sharing which enables us to enhance their security by ridding the streets of dangerous criminals."
The verdict stands as a testament to the commitment of the justice system and law enforcement in ensuring that those responsible for heinous crimes are held accountable.
