ELDORET: Two police officers accused of killing a 31 year-old Denis Lusava in 2020 will serve 35 years behind bars, a High Court sitting in Eldoret has ruled bringing closure to the family that has been looking for justice for close to five years.

The International Justice Mission (IJM) welcomed the sentencing of duo.

The human rights organization hailed the ruling as a major step forward in the fight against police abuse and impunity in Kenya.

“This decision sends a strong signal to all serving officers that those who engage in criminal acts will be held accountable,” said IJM Kenya Country Director Vincent Chahale, speaking after the verdict was delivered at the High Court.

Chahale also noted that the judgment comes amid mounting concern over deaths in police custody, citing the recent case of Albert Ojwang.

The two officers, Emmanuel Wafula and Godwine Wekesa, were found guilty of unlawfully detaining and torturing Lusava at Mbururu Police Post.

His body was later recovered from River Nzoia.

The ruling was delivered by Justice Reuben Nyakundi, following a trial that featured 21 prosecution witnesses and 27 exhibits.

In his judgment, the judge noted that the prosecution had proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Janice Muchemi, an IJM advocate who represented the Lusava family during the trial, called the outcome a step toward rebuilding public trust in the justice system.

“Today marks a significant milestone. It brings solace to victims of such acts and hope to families still waiting for justice,” she said.
“Though delayed, this verdict reaffirms our trust in the justice system.”