This archive report was first published on 16 July 2021.
On July 16, 2021, the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) opposed the release on bond of Simon Mutia Mwongela, a 53-year-old DCIO accused of murdering a security guard in Embakasi.
The IPOA investigator, Jane Ndusya, expressed concerns that Mwongela's influence and proximity to the scene of the crime could intimidate witnesses and compromise the investigation.
According to Ndusya, several civilian witnesses in the case are well-known to Mwongela, and there is a high likelihood that he would threaten or coerce them if released on bond or bail.
Additionally, Ndusya noted that Mwongela resides near the scene of the crime and is in charge of investigations in the neighboring jurisdiction, further increasing the risk of witness intimidation.
However, the probation officer's report presented a different perspective, stating that Mwongela's family is disturbed by the charges and that he has a permanent residence, making him a low flight risk.
Mwongela himself pleaded with the court to grant lenient bond terms, promising to cooperate with the investigation and not to flee justice.
