A Nyeri magistrate has been charged with murder following the fatal shooting of her husband, lawyer Robert Chesang, at their Machakos home in 2019. Pauline Maisyo Omungala, a senior principal magistrate, was detained by Athi River police after investigators linked the killing to domestic disputes and legal conflicts.
Chesang, 42, was found dead in their residence on February 17, 2019, after being shot seven times. Authorities identified Omungala as one of five suspects in custody, with police citing domestic violence as the motive. A senior officer stated the conflict stemmed from property disputes and court cases, noting the magistrate felt embarrassed by legal proceedings involving her husband.
The couple’s legal battles began in 2018 when Chesang filed a protection order alleging violence and police harassment. He claimed his home was locked, vehicles were seized, and his children were transferred to a new school without his consent. In an affidavit, he detailed losing "all earthly belongings" due to his wife’s actions and accused her of orchestrating police interference.
Legal proceedings against Omungala include claims of judicial misconduct. A 2018 case highlighted alleged interference by magistrates, including a senior resident magistrate who reportedly threatened to block a ruling. The officer investigating the murder also linked the killing to Lawrence Lempesi, a former NIS officer, who allegedly coordinated the attack with police officers.
DCI operations in Samburu and Machakos led to the arrest of Lempesi and Richard Lorunyei Moru, linked to the murder weapon. Ballistic analysis confirmed AK-47 rifles from a Mutuini police post were used. Omungala, who served in multiple counties, faces charges of murder alongside others, with additional suspects under investigation.
