Proceedings at the Narok Law Courts were temporarily disrupted on Tuesday after anti-riot police fired warning shots and tear gas to disperse a group of about 400 morans who allegedly attempted to forcefully free a businessman and politician facing murder charges. Citizen Digital reports
The suspect, David Matuke Ole Mayone, was arraigned over the alleged killing of a man in Majimoto and for reportedly opening fire on police officers during the incident.
Early in the morning, dozens of Mayone’s supporters gathered outside the courthouse carrying placards demanding his release. Security was heightened, with heavily armed police officers deployed both inside and outside the court premises to maintain order.
Appearing before Principal Magistrate Esther Mwikali Mutuku, Mayone, through his lawyer, did not take a plea but applied to be released on bond pending the completion of investigations.
The defence argued that bond was a constitutional right and that there were no compelling reasons to continue detaining the suspect. However, the court rejected the application.
Magistrate Mutuku ordered that Mayone undergo a mental assessment before being remanded in custody. She directed that he remain in custody until next Thursday, when he is expected to return to court for further proceedings.
Tension escalated shortly after the court session when the suspect was being escorted to the holding cells. His supporters allegedly attempted to snatch him from police custody, prompting officers to intervene.
The confrontation quickly turned chaotic, forcing anti-riot police to fire in the air and lob tear gas canisters to disperse the crowd. The standoff lasted nearly 20 minutes before the morans retreated, allowing officers to safely transfer the suspect to Narok Prison.
