Senior Principal Magistrate Evans Muleka has instructed that the remains of Safiya Hussein Bilal to be exhumed for a fresh autopsy to gather crucial forensic evidence in the investigation into her death.
Speaking during a court session in Daadad on Monday, December 8, magistrate Muleka instructed that Safiya’s relative, Hussein Bilal, identify the exact grave to allow exhumation and forensic examination of the victim’s remains.
The court appointed the Chief Government Pathologist to lead and supervise the entire exhumation exercise, then conduct a repeat post-mortem, while specialists from the Government Chemist would collect samples for detailed laboratory analysis.
He further ordered the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to document every step of the process, and a Fafi Subcounty Public Health Officer to oversee compliance with health and safety standards during the exhumation.
The court further ordered that the pathologist who conducted the initial post-mortem examination, Dr Chweya Arthur, be present.
However, Hussein Bilal was given the option of attending or being represented by a pathologist of his choice.
This development comes just weeks after the court directed that four suspects in the case remain in custody for an additional 20 days to allow investigators more time to gather evidence.
Court records indicate that Safiya Hussein Bilal was defiled and murdered by her uncle, who was left to care for her following the passing of her parent.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is expected to make a final charging decision once a complete forensic file is submitted following the exhumation.
The ODPP said that the exhumation is expected to provide crucial forensic evidence to support ongoing investigations and aid in the prosecution of those responsible for Safiya Hussein Bilal’s death.
The matter is scheduled for mention again on December 10, 2025, where the court will review updates on the exhumation and the progress of the murder investigation.
