In a chilling development that has sent shockwaves through Uasin Gishu County, Evans Juma Wanjala, a 36-year-old man, has confessed in court to the horrific murder of 10-year-old Stacy Achieng Nabiso. This confession comes amid allegations linking him to the murders of several other young girls in the region, raising serious concerns about child safety and justice in Kenya.
Wanjala appeared before Justice Reuben Nyakundi at the Eldoret High Court on November 11, 2024, where he admitted to killing Nabiso, whose body was discovered on January 1, 2020, after she went missing on December 31, 2019. The court heard that DNA evidence collected from Nabiso’s clothing matched samples taken from Wanjala, solidifying the prosecution’s case against him. This revelation has intensified public outrage and fear regarding the safety of children in the area.
Wanjala expressed his desire to enter a plea-bargaining agreement with the prosecution during the hearing. Justice Nyakundi granted his request and adjourned the case for two weeks to allow for further consultations between Wanjala’s defence team and the state. If accepted, this plea deal could potentially lead to a lesser sentence.
Wanjala is not only implicated in Nabiso’s murder but is also suspected of being responsible for at least four other killings of minors in the Moi’s Bridge area. The victims include Linda Cherono (13), Mary Elusa (14), Grace Njeri (12), and Lucy Wanjiru (15). All five girls were reportedly lured from their homes before being taken to secluded locations where they were sexually assaulted and subsequently murdered.
The details surrounding these crimes are harrowing. Investigations revealed that Wanjala would often lure his victims under pretences before committing these heinous acts. In some instances, the bodies were discovered buried or discarded in remote areas, showing signs of strangulation and sexual violence.
The community’s response has been one of horror and disbelief. Residents have expressed their anger and fear over the safety of children in Uasin Gishu County. “It’s shocking that a human being can do this to children,” said Lenah Kemboi, a resident. “We are relieved that he has been arrested but remain fearful for our children.”
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has been actively involved in the case since Wanjala’s arrest in July 2021. They have reported that he provided detailed confessions during interrogation, leading them to various crime scenes where the remains of his victims were recovered. His confessions included graphic descriptions of how he carried out each murder.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Wanjala faces three separate murder charges related to these cases. The prosecution has indicated they are prepared to present additional witnesses to strengthen their case against him. A status conference is scheduled for November 28, 2024, where further developments are expected.
The court proceedings have not only highlighted the brutality of Wanjala’s actions but have also raised questions about systemic issues surrounding child protection in Kenya. Advocates for children’s rights are calling for more stringent measures to ensure the safety of minors and stricter penalties for offenders involved in such crimes.
The case of Evans Juma Wanjala underscores a disturbing trend of violence against children in Kenya. As communities grapple with the implications of his confessions and await justice for the young lives lost, there is an urgent need for collective action to protect vulnerable children from such predators. The outcome of this case will not only impact the families affected but may also influence future policies aimed at safeguarding children across the nation.
As Uasin Gishu County continues to mourn its lost innocents, it stands united in its call for justice and an end to such senseless violence against its children.