Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.

The three individuals accused of the alleged murder of businesswoman Lucy Wambui Kamau will remain in custody until April 15, 2025, after a magistrate's court ordered the filing of a probation report before considering their bail and bond release applications.

The suspects—Edna Wanjiru, owner of Body by Design Clinic, George Wakaria Njoroge, and Surgeon Robert Maweu Mutula; —appeared before Kibera Senior Principal Magistrate Samson Temu for their bail ruling.

However, Magistrate Temu stated that he required a probation report to make an informed decision regarding their bail applications.

Magistrate Temu emphasised that while bail is a constitutional right, it can only be suspended, not revoked if compelling reasons are presented by the state.

"The justice system has yet to find a proper footing on the application of the compelling reasons ground," he remarked.

The court stressed its responsibility to uphold constitutional rights, including the right to bail, while considering the impact on the victim and her family.

The magistrate noted that the prosecution and defence were far apart in their positions, complicating the decision-making process.

Acknowledging the loss of life, Magistrate Temu stated that his decision would be made with the understanding that the victim’s family—her husband and children—must be assured that the case is being handled justly.

"I direct the probation officer to prepare a pre-bail report that considers both the victims' and suspects' perspectives to guide the court in determining bond terms," Magistrate Temu stated.

The suspects will remain in police custody until the next court hearing on April 15, 2025.

Meanwhile, Wambui passed away on October 6, 2024, following a botched liposuction procedure at the health facility.

The clinic officials have since been charged with murder after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) approved the charges.

In other news, former Nairobi governor Mike Sonko has vowed to support the family of Wambui in their pursuit of justice.

To determine the truth, Sonko disclosed that a private investigation was carried out to review what should be considered before undergoing surgery at the closed facility.

He also criticised the qualifications of the surgeons involved, alleging that they lacked the necessary experience to perform such a critical surgery.

Additionally, Sonko revealed their efforts to apprehend the hospital administration before Wambui's burial, but her husband was against their plans.

Source: TUKO.co.ke