Angry residents of Nyakach stormed the Nyando Law Courts on Friday, December 27,2024, demanding that the court deny bail to an alleged serial killer, Zacheaus Juma. The mob, furious over a string of violent crimes, threatened to take matters into their own hands if the suspect was granted bond.
“We are burying our children every day,” an anonymous resident declared passionately. “We cannot accept his release. If the court wants to give him bond, hand him over to us so we can finish this matter ourselves.”
Juma, accused of multiple assaults, including chopping off a resident’s hand, was arrested by DCI officers in Nairobi after fleeing Nyakach. Residents claim Juma, a bodyguard for a controversial businessman and a political newbie, has three pending assault cases in court, with the current incident marking his fourth. His alleged victim, Jashon Oluoch Akuku, remains hospitalized in Kisumu, recovering from grievous injuries.
Presented before Magistrate Hon. Jackline Wekesa, Juma denied the charges. However, Hon. Wekesa, acknowledging the overwhelming public outcry and the potential danger to Juma’s life, denied him bail.
“I cannot risk putting the suspect’s life in danger,” Wekesa remarked, instructing the probation office to conduct further investigations. The court will review the findings during a January 23 mention, with the hearing set for May 19, 2025.
In the meantime, Juma remains in custody at Kodiaga Maximum Prison. This decision comes amid heightened tensions in Nyakach, where Deputy County Commissioner Bob Anunda recently issued a shoot-to-kill directive for armed criminals caught committing violent acts.
As the community continues to grapple with rising insecurity, this case underscores the growing desperation for justice and safety in Nyakach.
