Fresh Twist as State Alleges Philip Aroko Played Financial Role in Charles Were’s Murder

Fresh Twist as State Alleges Philip Aroko Played Financial Role in Charles Were’s Murder

Businessman and influential Kasipul politician, Philip Aroko, has recently found himself at the center of investigations into the assassination of the late Member of Parliament (MP) Charles Ong’ondo Were.

On May 7, Aroko voluntarily turned himself in at the Gigiri Police Station following his identification as a person of interest by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The twist in the case came on May 9, when Aroko appeared at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Law Courts after being detained by the police for over 24 hours.

Aroko’s court appearance took an unexpected turn when his legal team, which included prominent lawyers Danstan Omari, Cliff Ombeta, Stanley Kinyanjui, and Sam Nyaberi, abruptly withdrew from representing him. This decision followed Aroko’s assertion to the magistrate that he did not require legal counsel. His decision to forgo legal representation raised questions and added complexity to the proceedings.

State’s Allegations and Financial Involvement

During the court session, the prosecution revealed that their investigations had linked Aroko to the murder of the late Kasipul MP, Charles Were. The state contended that Aroko was not merely an incidental figure but a key suspect who may have played a significant financial role in orchestrating the murder. The prosecution argued that Aroko’s involvement in the crime was not only that of a financier but also a key organizer, according to their findings.

“The suspects involved in this matter, including the respondent, who we believe to have been a key organizer and financier,” stated the prosecution, highlighting the central role Aroko is believed to have played in the crime.

As part of their investigation, officials disclosed that they were examining financial transactions allegedly linked to Aroko, which could have been used to fund the murder. This new twist in the investigation brought Aroko under intense scrutiny, raising further questions about his involvement in the events surrounding Were’s death.

Court Ruling and Custodial Order

Despite the gravity of the allegations against him, Aroko’s voluntary surrender was seen by the court as an indication of his cooperation with law enforcement. This prompted Principal Magistrate Irene Ngichobi to grant the prosecution a seven-day custodial period instead of the 30 days that had originally been requested. Aroko was ordered to be detained at Kileleshwa Police Station for the duration of this period.

“The respondent presented himself. He has shown he will avail himself. I hereby issue custodial orders for seven working days, and he will be held at Kileleshwa Police Station,” ruled Magistrate Ngichobi.

This shorter detention period was a direct result of Aroko’s voluntary cooperation, which the court recognized. However, the prosecution’s request for an extended custodial period of 30 days was based on ongoing investigations into financial transactions linked to Aroko, as well as the need for further verification of key locations tied to the planning of the crime. These efforts are essential to completing the investigation and ensuring that all parties involved in the conspiracy are identified and held accountable.

Ongoing Investigation and Witness Protection Concerns

The prosecution also informed the court that investigations into critical aspects of the case were still ongoing. They revealed that key locations where planning meetings for the murder allegedly took place had yet to be fully verified. Moreover, efforts to locate and interview additional witnesses are continuing, although officials expressed concern over the reluctance of potential witnesses to come forward due to fears of retaliation. The prosecution emphasized the need for witness protection, particularly for those who may be able to provide crucial testimony in the case.

Given these concerns, the prosecution had initially requested a 30-day period to allow for further investigation and to ensure adequate protection for witnesses who were willing to testify. However, the court ultimately granted only seven days of detention, recognizing Aroko’s voluntary cooperation with the investigation.

Aroko’s Defense and Health Concerns

In his defense, Aroko opposed the prosecution’s request for an extended detention period. His legal team argued that a month-long custodial sentence would be unreasonable, particularly given Aroko’s ongoing medical issues. The defense highlighted that Aroko’s health required special attention, which they claimed could not be adequately provided during an extended stay in custody. Aroko himself emphasized the importance of being with his family during this time, particularly due to his wife’s illness, which he said required his immediate support.

Aroko’s request to be transferred to Kileleshwa Police Station was granted, as he had made a formal appeal to be held closer to his ailing wife. This request was based on his need to be available for his family during this challenging time, as his wife’s health was a matter of concern.

The case involving Philip Aroko and the murder of Charles Were has taken an unexpected turn with allegations that Aroko played a significant financial role in orchestrating the crime. While Aroko’s voluntary surrender to the authorities has been seen as an indication of his willingness to cooperate, the ongoing investigation continues to raise important questions about his involvement.

The prosecution is focused on uncovering further evidence, including financial transactions and witness testimonies, to build a strong case. However, concerns about witness protection and the complexity of the case suggest that further developments are likely to unfold in the coming days. Aroko’s defense, citing health concerns and the need to support his family, adds another layer of complexity to the legal proceedings, which will be closely followed as the investigation progresses.

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Fresh Twist as State Alleges Philip Aroko Played Financial Role in Charles Were’s Murder