KISUMU, Kenya — The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has secured a 45-year prison sentence against a 23-year-old man convicted of murdering his younger brother and nephew in a brutal attack in Kisumu County.
The High Court of Kenya sitting in Kisumu sentenced Arnold Ochieng Omollo after he pleaded guilty to two counts of murder. The charges were brought under Section 203 as read with Section 204 of the Penal Code, which provides for severe penalties, including life imprisonment, for the offence.
Court records show that between November 25 and 26, 2024, the accused killed the two minors—his brother and nephew—while they were asleep at Kamango Village in Nyakach Subcounty. The attack was described as premeditated and carried out using crude weapons.
A postmortem examination established that both victims died from severe head injuries caused by penetrating brain trauma. Investigators linked the injuries to weapons recovered at the scene, including a metallic hoe and a wooden handle.
Prosecution counsel Mercy Muema told the court that the victims, both below the age of ten, were particularly vulnerable and incapable of defending themselves.
She argued for a stiff sentence, noting that the accused had a duty of care over the children but instead violated their fundamental right to life.
The prosecution further submitted that the killings were unprovoked and that the accused showed no remorse after committing the offences.
In his ruling, Justice Joe M. Omido imposed a 45-year custodial sentence on each count. The court directed that the sentences run concurrently, taking effect from December 18, 2024, when the accused first appeared in court.
The judge said the sentence reflects the gravity of the offence and the need to uphold the sanctity of life, particularly where minors are involved. He also noted that the punishment serves as a deterrent against similar crimes.
The court further observed that the prosecution had presented compelling evidence, including exhibits recovered from the scene, which directly linked the accused to the murders.
