Court orders full inventory of seized items in MP Charles Were murder case to ensure transparency and fairness

The High Court in Kibera has ordered the investigating officer in the murder case of Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were to present a detailed inventory of all items seized from the five accused persons.

Justice Diana Kavedza, who issued the directive during a pre-trial conference on Friday, said the move was aimed at ensuring transparency and fairness in handling evidence.

The court heard that items such as watches, clothes, academic and medical documents, and cash were taken during the suspects’ arrests, with some already returned. The judge questioned the chain of custody and ordered the officer to clarify which items will be used as exhibits.

Prosecutor Gikui Gichuhi confirmed that two bundles of exhibits had been prepared, one shared with the defence, while others were still pending. Defence lawyer John Swaka urged the release of personal belongings not tied to the case, arguing that their detention was unjustified.

Justice Kavedza directed the investigating officer to identify what would be presented as evidence and return items with no evidentiary value. The next pre-trial conference is set for October 29, 2025, with all accused and the investigating officer expected to attend.