Editor's Review

The suspect died while undergoing treatment after a short illness.

A suspect being held in connection with the Shakahola massacre has passed away at a Mombasa hospital.

In a statement on Monday, September 9, by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Edison Safari Munyambo died a few ago after a short illness.

"Edison Safari Munyambo alias Baba Sifa died a few days ago at a Mombasa hospital where she was undergoing treatment after a short illness," the ODPP remarked.

Munyambo is the second suspect to die in custody while being held over the Shakahola incident after another suspect, Mary Charo Mbita, passed away last month at Coast Teaching and Referral Hospital.

The deceased suspects are part of 95 accused persons charged with 283 counts of manslaughter before Mombasa Chief Magistrate Alex Ithuku.

Paul Mackenzie (centre).

Led by the prime suspect, Paul Nthege Mackenzie, the accused persons are also facing several charges, including torture and cruelty against children, violation of basic education act, terrorism, radicalization, being members of a terrorist group and murder.

According to the ODPP, Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Jami Yamina informed the magistrate of the death of Munyambo.

The magistrate indicated that the case would proceed while the court awaits the official confirmation document.

"He indicated that once the court is briefed accordingly, the case against the deceased suspect can be marked as abated," the ODPP stated.