DPP Orders Prosecution Of 95 Shakahola Suspects

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has directed the prosecution of 95 suspects over the Shakahola massacre.

In a statement on Tuesday, January 16, the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) said DPP Ingonga is satisfied there is sufficient evidence to prosecute the 95 suspects.

“Pursuant to the prosecution guided investigations, the Director of Criminal Investigations forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) inquiry files for perusal and advise.

“Upon thorough analysis of the evidence, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is satisfied that there is sufficient evidence to prosecute ninety-five (95) suspects,” read the statement in part.

The suspects are set to be charged with Murder contrary to Section 203 as read with Section 204 of the Penal Code, manslaughter contrary to Section 202 as read with Section 205 of the Penal Code, and assault causing bodily harm contrary to Section 251 of the Penal Code.

The 95 suspects will also face charges of engaging in organized criminal activity, radicalization, facilitating the commission of a terrorist act and being in possession of an article connected with an offence which are contrary to the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2012 and the Prevention of Organized Crimes Act, 2010.

Under the Children Act, 2001, the Prevention of Torture Act, 2017 and the Basic Education Act, 2013, the suspects will be charged with subjecting a child to torture, cruelty to a child, and infringing a child's right to education.

DPP Ingonga also ordered the 95 suspects to be presented before the High Court and Subordinate Court.

“The ODPP undertakes to expeditiously prosecute the matters in view of the great public interest involved,” the statement added.