Five guards at Delmonte Kenya Limited have been charged with murdering a man who strayed in a pineapple plantation.
Paul Ndung’u, Josphat Ng’ang’a, Maranga Joel, Moses Ebongon Lokadeli and George Musyimi yesterday denied the charge before Murang'a High Court Judge Kanyi Kimondo.
The murder occurred on the night of April 20 and April 21, in Delmonte farm within Gatanga sub-county. Police say Bernard Murigi was assaulted by the five to his death.
The suspects through lawyer Mbiyu Kamau appealed for bail, saying they will abide by all conditions set by the court.
“My clients are not flight risk, and are ready to comply with all conditions that will be set by this court,” said Mbiyu.
The court ordered that bail application be heard on July 23, when the pre-bail report will be presented. Deputy Senior Director of Public Prosecution Sebastian Mutinda told the court that several witnesses will testify during the proceedings.
Murigi’s body was found dumped at Mabanda area along Thika- Gatanga- Kirwara Road, before it was collected and moved to General Kago Mortuary in Thika, where it was identified by relatives.
The 25-year-old was in a group that strayed in the farm allegedly to steal the fruits before an encounter with the guards, who allegedly beat him to death.
The court will rule on their bail release on July 23.
