The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) revealed on Wednesday compelling evidence that positioned the primary suspect in the murder of Rex Masai, Officer Isaiah Murangiri, in close proximity to the crime scene.
Despite the presence of photographic images, video footage, and phone records that all indicated his location near where the incident occurred, Officer Murangiri steadfastly refuted claims that he was the individual seen in the recordings.
He had previously stated that he was off duty during the protests that took place on June 18, just two days prior to the shooting of Rex Masai, and he continued to assert that the person depicted in the evidence was not him.
Examiner: “Please go to the next picture… you’re still not the one?”
Murangiri: “I’m not the one.”
Examiner: “Next picture… still not you?” (A file of Murangiri firing tear gas canister at compliant protesters on June 18th, 2024)
Examiner: “What is that the individual is holding?”
Murangiri: “I think that is a tear gas launcher.”
Murangiri did not change his tune even after comparisons to a birthmark on his face were made.
Examiner: “Please zoom in on the picture. Do you see that mark on the face there? Do you see that mark when you look in the mirror?”
Examiner: “Please turn and show the court…”
Murangiri: “It is not me.”
Photographic evidence and phone data were also presented, seeking to disprove Murangiri’s earlier assertions that he was stationed at KICC on the day of Rex Masai’s fatal shooting.
Examiner: “Although you say that it is not you, this person that bears a resemblance to you — why would you lie to this court that you were at KICC?”
Murangiri: “Your honour, I’m saying the truth. I’m not lying to this court.”
Examiner: “Zoom in. Do you see the African art on the wrist? Is this not the same African art in this image?”
Presiding Magistrate Geoffrey Onsarigo directed Corporal Martin Githinji, Constable Simon Waweru and Constable Geoffrey Mbae — all from Central Police Station — to avail themselves to IPOA.
He also directed that the original arms register be supplied to the investigation team.
“The pathologist’s report showed that Rex was killed by a live bullet,” stated Assistant Director, Forensics at IPOA, Paul Njihia.
