John Matara Beaten Up While Being Transferred to Ruiru Court: Lawyers Tell Judge
John Matara, the primary individual under suspicion in the homicide case involving 24-year-old influencer Starlet Wahu, alleged on Wednesday that he was physically assaulted by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) while being transported to Ruiru Law Courts.
A person familiar with the situation, who communicated with Gossipa2z.com, clarified that Matara, during his appearance before Magistrate Charles Mwaniki, claimed that he had been subjected to severe kicks and punches to his face while being transferred from Industrial Area Prison, where he was held in remand.
Additionally, he asserted that the officers also tugged at his genitalia.
Via his attorney Samuel Ayora, the accused implored the judge to arrange for his transfer to the hospital for necessary medical care.
Lead prosecutor Winnie Moraa did not object to the plea but recommended that the request be carried out with stringent security measures in place.
In the legal proceedings, Matara faced allegations of both sexual assault and theft amounting to over Ksh88,300 from a woman residing in Kahawa Wendani in March 2023.
As per the document submitted in court, Matara faced accusations of committing rape and violent robbery.
The document also stated that the individual menaced the victim with a blade before taking Ksh30,000 in cash and the remaining amount in mobile funds.
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Furthermore, he was charged with the theft of her identification, passport, and family ATM card.
The suspect is alleged to have used brute force.
Lawyer Ayora countered the allegations, asserting his client’s innocence. He further requested the court to consider granting bail, emphasizing that Matara poses no flight risk.
The prosecutor advised the court to grant an order for a DNA examination, enabling both sides to ascertain the truth.
During the evidence examination, Magistrate Mwaniki ordered that Matara be accompanied to Ruiru Police Station to lodge a report regarding the incident.
He additionally instructed that Matara be escorted to the hospital with strict security measures in place, and mandated a DNA test for further examination.
Regarding the possibility of the suspect being granted bail, the magistrate stated that the ruling would be given on Friday.
John Matara Beaten Up While Being Transferred to Ruiru Court: Lawyers Tell Judge