Erick Mutinda, the prime suspect in the gruesome murder of Sylvia Kemunto, will remain in police custody for at least another month.
This follows a recommendation from probation officers, who advised against his release on bail at this stage of the trial, citing concerns over his suitability.
Mutinda appeared before Justice Diana Kavedza at the Kibera High Court for a pretrial hearing, almost one month after pleading not guilty to the murder charges.
Justice Diana Kavedza at the Kibera High Court
The prosecution informed the court that it plans to call 19 witnesses to testify most of whom are students from Multimedia University in a bid to prove its case.
So far, the prosecution has provided 17 written witness statements to the defense.
In addition, both the prosecution and the victim’s family represented by lawyers Danstan Omari, Samson Nyaberi, and Shadrack Wambui have filed affidavits opposing Mutinda’s release on bond, arguing that he should remain in custody while the case proceeds.
Mutinda is charged with murder under Section 204 of the Penal Code, Cap 63 of the Laws of Kenya. He is accused of killing Sylvia Kemunto Ayaye on March 30, 2025, at Multimedia University.
Kemunto’s body was discovered in a water tank at the university days after she had been reported missing. An autopsy revealed that she died from strangulation and had also sustained head injuries caused by a blunt object.
Mutinda, who has denied the charges, is currently being held at Nairobi Remand Prison.
The case is scheduled to proceed to hearing on June 23, 2025.
