A suspect among five arrested for torching United Democratic Alliance (UDA) offices in Siaya on Monday, April 3, stated that he believed his arrest on April 1, was an April fools' prank.
Appearing in court, the suspect claimed that he was driven to several police stations by the officers after his arrest without being informed of his offence or charges.
He further argued that until he appeared before the court, he was not aware that the charges against him were criminal offences.
“In fact, your honour, because it was April Fools Day, I thought someone was pulling a prank on me” he stated.
The suspects appeared before Siaya Magistrate Margaret Wambani and were accused of torching the UDA offices on Thursday, March 30 during Azimio protests.
In addition, the plaintiff stated that the building valued at Ksh15 million was extensively damaged during the mass action led by Azimio leader Raila Odinga.
Their lawyer Leonard Okanda pleaded with the court to release them on lenient bond or bail terms.
“Pending trial, I pray that my five clients will be released on reasonable bond or cash bail.
“As you can see, they are the real hustlers and cannot afford heavy cash bails or bonds. They live from hand to mouth,” Okanda stated.
All five suspects denied the charges before Siaya Magistrate Margaret Wambani.
In a statement on Sunday, April 3, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) announced their arrest stating that they managed to recover exhibits including iron sheets and window grills from the suspects.
DCI stated that the five were part of a gang that also inflicted serious injuries on anti-riot police officers deployed during the protests.
“Armed with crude weapons, projectiles and petrol bombs, the thugs turned to the police officers who were responding to the violence and seriously injured five of them,” the DCI statement read in part.
