The suspect in the killing of Multi Media University student Sylvia Kemunto was Tuesday charged with murder.
Philip Eric Mutinda appeared before Justice Diana Mochache Khavedza at the Kibera High Court where he denied the murder charge.
The accused’s lawyer applied for release on lenient bond terms.
However, the court declined to grant bond, pending the submission of a report from the probation officer.
“Given the nature of the offense and the concerns raised about witness interference, the court finds it necessary to await the probation officer’s report before making a determination on bond,” said Justice Khavedza.
The prosecution opposed the bond application, arguing that Mutinda poses a flight risk as he has no fixed residence.
“He has no permanent place of abode, and releasing him on bond could jeopardize the case,” said a representative for the victim’s family.
“Most of the witnesses are students at Multimedia University, and we believe he could intimidate or interfere with them.”
Justice Khavedza directed the defense to file a formal bond application, supported by an affidavit.
Mutinda will be remanded at Nairobi Remand Prison and escorted to Mbagathi Hospital for psychiatrist evaluation.
The family of Kemunto, through their lawyer, Danstan Omari and Sam Nyaberi supported the submissions made by the State and indicated they would seek leave of the court to respond should a formal bail application be made.
The family further stated that they would be opposing any application for bail.
The matter will be mentioned on May 29, 2025, when the probation officer is expected to submit the pre-bail report.
According to court documents, Kemunto had been reported missing on April 1 by her mother, Teresia Ayai.
Kemunto’s lifeless body was discovered on April 2 during a search conducted by the university’s security team atop Block B Hostel.
The suspect, identified as a fellow student and reportedly Kemunto’s ex-boyfriend, had been last seen entering her hostel room on March 30 and later leaving with a suitcase that appeared heavily packed.
He then vanished from the university premises without notice.
Mutinda eventually surrendered at Sultan Hamud Police Station on April 4 and was subsequently transferred to Capital Hill police station.
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