Key court cases in Nakuru to watch in 2025
From left Lions Garden, murder suspect Ezekiel Mwangi and defilement suspect Jackson Njoroge.
Last year, the corridors of justice in Nakuru were abuzz with cases of murder, defilement, land disputes and environmental concerns.
While some cases arrived at their conclusion, others continue to unfold in the courtrooms and promise to keep the public's attention this year.
Here's a look at some of the key cases to watch:
Ezekiel Mwangi's four murder charges
On September 19, 2024, Ezekiel Sakwa was arraigned in the Nakuru magistrate's court, where he pleaded not guilty to the murders of Alice Ayuma, Virginia Njeri Mwangi, Florence Mueni Mwalimu and Vellah Moraa Mogambi.
Court documents revealed chilling details linking Sakwa to the murders, including his confession, which hinted at the motives behind the heinous acts.
Despite applying for bail, his application was denied on November 14, 2024 by magistrate Julius Nange'a.
"Given the serious nature of the charges, which carry severe penalties if convicted, there are compelling reasons to deny bail," read part of the court ruling.
Hearing of the case is scheduled for February on the18, 20 and 25, making it one of the most closely watched trials of the year.
Activist challenges Nakuru County over Lions Garden stalls
The proposed construction of stalls in Lions Garden has dominated discussions over the past year, culminating in a legal battle.
On October 10, 2024, Nakuru resident John Gethanga filed a case against the Nakuru County government, to oppose construction of stalls inside Lions Graden. He argued that the stalls would compromise the park's purpose as a recreational space.
The case is scheduled to be heard on January 21.
Similarly, the Trusted Society Human Rights Alliance filed a separate case against the county government on July 30,2024.
On November 22, 2024, Justice Millicent Odeny granted a 60-day interim injunction restraining the county from erecting any commercial structures at Lions Garden.
"Pending the hearing and determination of this application, the respondents are hereby restrained from erecting any stalls, kiosks or other commercial structures within Central Park - Lions Garden for a period of 60 days," the court order reads.
Jackson Njoroge's multiple defilement charges
In a shocking case that came to light late last year, Jackson Njoroge was charged with 37 counts of defilement, indecency with a minor, sexual assault, child pornography and child prostitution.
The alleged crimes took place in Nakuru East Sub-County, specifically in Lake View and Naka Estates. On November 18, 2024, Njoroge appeared before Senior Resident Magistrate Emmanuel Soita and pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Following a pre-trial hearing on December 2, 2024, bail was denied. The trial in this deeply disturbing case is scheduled for February 7.