Pathologist’s Testimony Challenges Police Narrative in Kianjokoma Brothers’ Deaths
A government pathologist has testified before the High Court in Nairobi that the injuries sustained by Embu brothers Emmanuel Mutura and Benson Njiru were inconsistent with police claims that the siblings died after jumping from a moving vehicle. The testimony, delivered as the seventh prosecution witness in the ongoing murder trial, has intensified scrutiny of the events surrounding the brothers’ deaths on August 1, 2021, in Kianjokoma, Embu County.
The pathologist conducted postmortem examinations on the siblings on August 5, 2021, at Embu Level 5 Hospital, in the presence of relatives and police officers. The court heard detailed findings that point to severe blunt force trauma as the cause of death for both brothers, contradicting the police narrative that they leapt from a vehicle while being transported to Embu Police Station for allegedly breaching COVID-19 curfew regulations.
For Emmanuel Mutura, aged 19, the pathologist described extensive external bruising on the face and neck, with blood oozing from his ears and nostrils. His clothing—a green T-shirt and black trousers—showed no signs of damage, such as tears or abrasions typically associated with a fall from a moving vehicle. Internally, the examination revealed multiple skull fractures and brain lacerations. The pathologist concluded that Mutura’s death resulted from severe head injuries caused by blunt force trauma, ruling out a fall as the cause.
Similarly, the examination of Benson Njiru, aged 22, revealed blood stains and dust on his body, along with visible deformities to his face and skull. The pathologist noted a dislocated shoulder, compound fractures in the leg, and injuries to the chest and abdomen. Internal findings included multiple rib fractures and extensive brain damage. Additionally, marks consistent with dragging on a rough surface were observed. The pathologist determined that Njiru died from multiple blunt force injuries, further challenging the police account.
During cross-examination by lawyer Danstan Omari, representing some of the accused police officers, the pathologist acknowledged that falls from vehicles can sometimes cause multiple injuries. However, he emphasized that such incidents typically result in torn clothing and rolling patterns on the body—signs absent in both brothers’ cases. This observation strengthens the prosecution’s argument that the injuries were not consistent with the police’s explanation.
The brothers’ deaths, reported on the night of August 1, 2021, along Kiriari Road, sparked widespread protests in Kianjokoma and nationwide condemnation. The family has accused the police of brutality and orchestrating a cover-up. Six officers have since been charged with murder, and the case is being heard before the Milimani High Court.
The pathologist’s testimony marks a pivotal moment in the trial, bolstering the prosecution’s case that the Kianjokoma brothers were victims of fatal blunt force trauma. The findings have fueled public demands for justice and accountability, with community leaders and human rights organizations calling for a thorough investigation into the incident. The family, while grieving, remains hopeful that the evidence will lead to the truth and that those responsible will be held accountable.
As the trial progresses, the court is expected to hear additional testimony and review further evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the brothers’ deaths. The case continues to highlight broader concerns about police conduct and the need for systemic reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future.