By A man suspected of a string of gruesome killings in Kenya’s capital has escaped from police custody, officials confirmed Tuesday, raising concerns about public safety and the integrity of the country’s criminal justice system.
Collins Jumaisi Khalusha, 33, who police say confessed to killing 42 women, including his wife, managed to break out of a Nairobi police station along with 12 other inmates. The escape occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning, just days before Khalusha was expected to be formally charged.
Mohamed Amin, head of Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), described the incident as “unfortunate” in an interview with The Associated Press. “This was a high-value suspect who was to face serious charges. We are investigating the incident and will take action accordingly,” Amin stated.
According to preliminary reports, Khalusha and his fellow escapees cut through wire mesh in their cells and scaled the perimeter wall of the police station. The audacious escape has prompted questions about security measures at the facility and the potential for insider assistance.
Khalusha’s arrest in July had sent shockwaves through Nairobi after police discovered 10 dismembered bodies and various body parts wrapped in plastic sacks in the city’s Kware area. The grisly findings led to an intensive investigation that culminated in Khalusha’s apprehension.
Police reported that following his arrest, Khalusha confessed to the murders of 42 women. However, the suspect’s lawyer has vehemently contested this claim, telling journalists that his client was tortured and forced to confess. The lawyer maintains Khalusha’s innocence, setting the stage for what would have been a high-profile criminal trial.
The escape has reignited debate about Kenya’s criminal justice system and the treatment of suspects in custody. Human rights organizations have long criticized the use of torture and coercion in obtaining confessions, calling for reforms to ensure fair trials and humane treatment of detainees.
Authorities have launched a massive manhunt for Khalusha and the other escaped inmates. Police have set up roadblocks and increased patrols in Nairobi and surrounding areas. The public has been urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the suspects to law enforcement immediately.
The case has also drawn attention to the broader issue of violence against women in Kenya. Women’s rights activists have called for increased efforts to address gender-based violence and improve support systems for victims and their families.
Two other suspects connected to the case, arrested for possessing mobile phones belonging to some of the deceased women, are scheduled to appear in court on August 26. Their involvement and the evidence against them are expected to be crucial in piecing together the full extent of the alleged crimes.
As the search for Khalusha continues, questions linger about how such a high-profile suspect managed to escape and what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The DCI has promised a thorough internal investigation, with potential disciplinary action for any officers found negligent in their duties.
The escape has also raised concerns about potential witness intimidation and the safety of those involved in the investigation. Authorities have not disclosed whether any specific threats have been made, but security measures around key witnesses and investigators are likely to be enhanced.
This case continues to grip the nation, highlighting issues of public safety, police competence, and the challenges facing Kenya’s criminal justice system. As the manhunt intensifies, Kenyans await answers and assurances that justice will be served for the victims and their families.
Source: AP
