Government pathologists and the Directorate of Criminal Investigation(DCI) homicide unit on Friday, March 31, exhumed Jeff Mwathi's body in Njoro, Nakuru County.
The exercise was done following a directive by DCI Mohamed Amin on Tuesday, March 28, to identify gaps in the case that could be identified after DNA and Toxicology analyses were done.
The process was led by pathologist Johansen Oduor who arrived at the scene accompanied by law enforcement officers.
Requirements
Although not common, there are several reasons for exhumation according to the constitution including to undergo a medical examination for a criminal investigation as was the case with Jeff Mwathi.
According to section 146 of the Public Health Act, the procedure can only take place after a permit is “granted only to the legal personal representative or next of kin or their duly authorized agent by the Cabinet Secretary in charge of health.”
Techniques Used
While the residents of the area clashed with local administrators over being present during the exercise noting that the DCI officers would not do a thorough job, there are techniques and rules followed by the officers for the successful completion of the exercise.
Protective garments
One of the safety measures the officers adhered to was wearing appropriate personal protective equipment including blue and white impervious gowns with full sleeve coverage.
In addition, the officers wore gloves and gumboots as part of the protective measures for the exercise.
Timing
According to the officers, the process of exhuming and examining the body would take about two hours.
Francis Wanjau, the Nakuru DCI boss added that it was paramount for the process to take the shortest time possible to avoid too much exposure of the body to other external factors.
People present
Only family members are allowed to be present during the process of exhuming a body.
Owing to that, the compound was sealed and manned by police officers and residents sent away from the environs.
The move is to ensure minimal disturbance and prevent the infliction of any other physical injuries to the body.
"We are about to cross paths with all of you. Kindly leave this area and allow the police to proceed. Do not interfere with the crime scene," area police stated to the agitated residents during the exhumation of Jeff Mwathi’s body.
Media Coverage
Media coverage is not allowed during the process.
Practitioners who had gone to cover the process were sent away and instructed to report the progress from a distance.
What Happens Next
After exhuming the body, the pathologist conducts DNA and Toxicology analyses.
The findings are then recorded before the body is re-buried in the presence of the family members.
However until they achieve their goal, the body cannot be reburied.
The interior designer was found dead on February 22 after falling from the 12th floor of an apartment in the Kasarani estate.
Mugithi singer DJ Fatxo was named as a person of interest in the case, as they were captured together before the incident.
