Kenya probing death of citizen detained in Ethiopia since 2015

Kenya says it has launched an investigation into the murder of its national who died in detention in neighbouring Ethiopia.

Zakayo Muruiki Gatimu, a Kenyan Information Technology (IT) specialist died in an Ethiopian hospital after he had been held in prison. He died last Sunday after being held in prison since his arrest on 10th January 2015.

‘‘We can confirm that investigations to establish the circumstances of his death are underway and we have been assured of full cooperation from the Ethiopian authorities,’‘ a government statement released on Friday read.

Kenya government statement on Zakayo Muriuki who died in an Ethiopian prison. pic.twitter.com/C1QwKJApji

— Oliver Mathenge (@OliverMathenge) December 16, 2016

The mortal remains of Gatimu were returned to Kenya on Thursday after spending 20 months in an Ethiopian jail. Social media was buzzing with criticism and anger at the Kenyan government’s lack of commitment to have him released.

The Kenyan government statement said it ‘‘will continue to stand with Gatimu’s family as arrangements for his funeral are finalized. Another Kenyan meanwhile remains in detention. Jedrick Mugo was arrested with Gatimu in 2015.

The two were picked up along with a co-worker, one Ali Basir. They were arrested while leaving the compound of a client who had asked their employer, BSS Ltd, to install a VSAT satellite in a town bordering Addis Ababa and Somalia.

Some media reports state that they are accused by the Ethiopian government of ‘‘telecommunication fraud.’‘

“Government remains engaged in efforts to secure the release of Mr Muriuki’s colleague, Mr Jedrick Mugo. We urge their employers to come forth with critical information needed by the Ethiopian Government to shed more light on the case,” the statement added.

The government further cautioned nationals living in foreign countries to maintain the highest levels of vigilance and to be cognizant with the laws of that country and make efforts to observe them.