Eldoret police detain school driver, 31, accused of defiling 3-year-old girl

A court in Eldoret has allowed police to detain for seven days a school bus driver accused of defiling a three-year-old pupil.

Senior Principal Magistrate Mogire Onkoba granted the seven days even though the investigating officers had requested 14 days to allow them to complete investigations.

He ordered the suspect, Bernard Mutai, to be held at Naiberi police station until May 21, when the case will be mentioned in court.

The 31-year-old is accused of defiling the minor last Thursday while dropping her off at home from school.

The magistrate rejected a request to extend the suspect's detention to 14 days, stating that investigators did not need such a lengthy period to complete their inquiry.

He also acknowledged that the prosecution, represented by state counsel Patrick Onjoro and investigation officer Corporal Ruth Juma, indicated that the suspect's life is in danger due to public anger and hostility from the community.

Onjoro emphasised that while the suspect has the right to bail, he also has the right to life, which can only be safeguarded if he remains in custody.

"Given that there is evidence suggesting the ground is not safe for the suspect’s immediate return, I cannot disregard this and allow him to re-enter an environment where his life may be at risk. It is my responsibility to protect lives," Onkoba stated.

He concluded that it is in the best interest of the minor to keep the suspect detained while police finalise their investigation.

"The suspect will be held at Naiberi police station for seven days. The case will be mentioned for further directions on May 21," the magistrate ruled.

Corporal Juma's application noted that police have yet to record statements from key witnesses, escort the minor for age assessment, and complete the P3 form.

Mutai was arrested on May 12 while dropping off pupils, three days after the alleged incident.

The prosecution also expressed concerns that the suspect might flee if released before the investigation is completed.

Obuodho, the advocate representing Mutai, opposed the request to keep his client in custody and called for his release on bail. He argued that the prosecution's concerns were not compelling.

"There is no demonstrated prejudice regarding the safety of the complainant. My client feels safe and does not wish to remain at the station," Obuodho stated. "We cannot simply accept the prosecution's assumptions."

Human rights defenders, including Kimutai Kirui and Uasin Gishu County Nominated MCA Regina Chumba, have called for swift investigations into this matter, lamenting the rising cases of defilement of minors in the region.