By Michelle Ndaga
A man in Kiambu County has been sentenced to death after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) successfully secured his conviction for robbery with violence, rape, and murder.
Joseph Ndichu Gitau was found guilty of brutally attacking a woman in Gatei village, Gatundu North, on 17th January 2025. According to the prosecution, Gitau, alongside an accomplice still at large, broke into the victim’s home, robbed her of household items, sexually assaulted her, and ultimately killed her.
Prosecution counsels Joy Kaaria and Wamuyu Ngugi led the case, presenting compelling evidence that linked the accused to the heinous acts. The ODPP called nine witnesses and produced forensic analysis that not only placed Gitau at the scene but also connected him directly to the stolen items and the murder weapon a kitchen knife recovered from his home.
A crucial turning point in the investigation came when Gitau reportedly uploaded a photograph of himself on the deceased’s Facebook account using her stolen phone. This unusual activity raised alarm among neighbours, leading to the discovery of the victim’s body and triggering a police investigation.
In delivering the verdict, the court praised the prosecution for its meticulous handling of the case, noting that the evidence presented overwhelmingly met the legal threshold for a conviction on all charges.
The ODPP, in a statement following the judgment, reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice for victims of violent crimes, stating that the conviction underscores its resolve to protect vulnerable communities and uphold the rule of law.
Gitau now faces the death penalty, as prescribed for capital offences under Kenyan law.
