GARISSA, Kenya — A Dadaab court has granted police 20 days to investigate four suspects linked to the murder of 17-year-old orphan Safiya Hussein Bilal, whose body was discovered on November 16.
The suspects — Shafa Bilal Sharkane, Abubakar Abdullahi, Halima Muhumud Mogow, and Zeynab Salat Samatar — were arraigned before Senior Principal Magistrate Hon. Evans Muleka, with police seeking additional time to complete investigations.
Investigating officer Jefferson Mwiti told the court that the first suspect allegedly defiled and strangled the minor while she slept.
The second suspect is accused of attempting to cover up the crime, while the third and fourth are alleged to have washed the victim’s body to conceal evidence.
Mwiti said further investigation was necessary, including recording statements from remaining witnesses, conducting mental assessments on the suspects, and ensuring their safety and that of the public.
He noted that the suspects were considered flight risks due to the proximity of Fafi Sub-County to the Somalia border.
Prosecution counsel Simon Eyanae urged the court to grant the application, stressing the matter’s public interest and the urgent need for justice for the victim and her family.
Eyanae added that police intend to collect DNA samples from the first respondent to compare with evidence retrieved from the victim.
Hon. Muleka approved the application, directing that the suspects remain in custody at Hagadera Police Station for the 20-day period to allow completion of investigations before plea-taking.
