A Nyeri magistrate has been arrested in connection with the murder of her lawyer husband, who was fatally shot in their Machakos home on February 17.
Pauline Omungala, a senior principal magistrate, was detained by Athi River police officers investigating the killing, which authorities described as an assassination. The murder occurred around noon, with Robert Chesang’ sustaining seven gunshot wounds.
The case involves a history of domestic disputes, including multiple court filings. Chesang’ had sought protection from his wife, alleging she used police officers to harass him and restrict his access to their children. A 2018 case file (No. 47) detailed his claims of being forced out of their home and having his vehicles seized.
Chesang’ accused Omungala of orchestrating his legal battles, including allegations of judicial interference. A senior magistrate, Linus Kassan, was implicated in a dispute over case management, though he denied interfering. The conflict escalated to the point where Chesang’ requested an independent police investigation into alleged fabricated assault charges.
Police identified a former NIS officer, Lawrence Lempesi, as a key suspect in coordinating the murder. DCI operations in Samburu and Machakos led to the arrest of Lempesi and two police officers linked to the crime. Ballistic evidence connected AK-47 rifles from a Nairobi police post to the murder scene.
Omungala, who served in multiple jurisdictions including Nyeri, faces charges alongside five suspects. Two of the accused, including a sergeant and his son, were detained in Nairobi. While the son is expected to be released, investigations continue into the involvement of judicial and law enforcement figures.
