This archive report was first published on 8 November 2019.
On December 28, 2017, a heinous crime shook Chepkuikui village in Pokot Central sub-county. A 72-year-old man, Ringetiang Tomeluk, was brutally murdered by three men over claims of witchcraft.
Richard Rimoi, Benson Muketiang, and Wilson Lemereng were found guilty by the Kapenguria high court and sentenced to 25 years in prison each.
The prosecution presented six witnesses to testify against the trio, who denied committing the offence. However, the evidence presented was sufficient to prove their guilt.
According to one of the witnesses, Ringetiang was beaten senselessly while his hands were tied together after he attended a meeting to address the witchcraft allegations. He was then dragged and set on fire after petrol was poured on him.
Dr. Jotham Mukhola, the medical superintendent at Kapenguria county hospital, testified that the deceased had multiple bruises and 60 per cent burns, indicating that he died from acute bleeding, trauma from a blunt force, and dry heat.
Justice Ruth Sitati, the presiding judge, stated that the evidence presented was sufficient to sentence the trio to 25 years in jail but gave them 14 days to file an appeal against the sentence.
