Monica Kimani: What Kassaine saw must be important

After spending 13 days in police custody, one of the suspects arrested in connection with Monica Kimani's murder, Brian Kassaine, has been released. Kassaine was the neighbor of Jackie Maribe and Joseph Irungu (commonly known as Jowie), who were also linked to the case. His release raises questions about the direction the case is taking, with some even referring to Kassaine as a potential witness.

Previously, it was reported that both Jackie Maribe and Brian Kassaine had revised their initial police statements. Changing a statement in a criminal investigation can be risky, as it may lead to charges of providing false information, a serious offense. Typically, such changes are made after consulting with lawyers and negotiating a plea bargain with the prosecution. In a plea bargain, charges against a suspect may be reduced or dropped in exchange for their cooperation, often as a witness.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) must approve all plea bargains. Initially, Maribe appeared poised to testify against her fiancé, Joseph Irungu. However, new evidence seemingly linked Maribe to the crime, leading to her being charged alongside Irungu. This development suggests the state uncovered significant new information implicating her.

Kassaine’s release appears to be part of a plea bargain, hinting he might serve as a key witness for the prosecution. Notably, investigators had previously stated that Kassaine’s firearm was unlicensed, which could have led to separate charges against him. His release, combined with this detail, suggests the state might leverage his cooperation in exchange for leniency.

Damning evidence has emerged from Kassaine's revised statement, including claims that Maribe and Irungu borrowed paraffin from him. Investigators believe the paraffin was used to burn evidence, potentially tied to the crime. If proven, this testimony could strengthen the case against Maribe and Irungu.

However, some Kenyans suspect Maribe and Irungu have been framed, arguing the evidence against them is too conspicuous to be genuine. For example, investigators claim Irungu’s fingerprints were found on duct tape used to bind Monica Kimani. Critics argue this level of carelessness is inconsistent with Irungu’s alleged actions.

Despite his release, Kassaine must report to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) every Thursday and surrender his passport within 48 hours. These conditions ensure he remains accessible and cooperative, as witnesses can sometimes change their statements due to external pressure or threats.

Kassaine’s release implies the prosecution believes their case is strong enough to proceed, even if he alters his testimony. Moreover, the unlicensed firearm charge remains a potential fallback if his cooperation wavers. Reporting regularly to the DCI also indicates the investigation is ongoing, and new evidence could emerge.

In summary, while Kassaine's release suggests progress in the case, he remains under scrutiny. This high-profile trial, which some are calling "the murder trial of the decade," promises to captivate the nation.