A crucial CCTV footage has been tabled in the Eldoret High Court, shedding light on the brutal murder of lawyer Calvin Ngaira, allegedly at the hands of his colleague Abel Mogaka. The evidence, presented by Inspector Daniel Kieny from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Cyber-Crime Unit, detailed events leading up to the tragic incident that occurred on May 18, 2019.
Presiding over the case, Justice Robert Wananda reviewed the footage, which captured a three-day house party at an apartment along the Eldoret-Nakuru highway. The party, hosted by an Eldoret-based advocate, had more than ten attendees, including the accused and the deceased. What began as a celebratory gathering ended in tragedy when a confrontation between the two lawyers escalated fatally.
According to Kieny’s testimony, the footage showed Mogaka and Ngaira stepping outside the apartment while engaging in a seemingly cordial conversation. However, moments later, Mogaka is seen walking out of the house holding a glass, followed closely by Ngaira. Shortly after, an altercation ensued, during which Mogaka allegedly used a broken bottle to stab Ngaira on the left side of his neck.
Ngaira, who had been practicing law in Eldoret for barely three months, sustained critical injuries and was rushed to Mediheal Hospital by his friends. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
The prosecution, led by Brenda Oduo, filed an application to recall Edith Chebet, the first witness in the case, to provide further clarification on the events of that fateful night. Chebet’s testimony is expected to offer additional insights into the sequence of events leading to the confrontation.
With the trial ongoing, the case continues to garner significant public interest due to the brutal nature of the crime and the involvement of legal professionals. The next hearing is scheduled for March 9, 2025, as the court seeks to establish the full circumstances surrounding Ngaira’s tragic death and determine Mogaka’s culpability.
The presentation of the CCTV footage marks a critical turning point in the case, providing visual evidence that could significantly influence the court’s ruling. The prosecution remains confident that the footage, along with witness testimonies, will help deliver justice for the slain lawyer.
As the trial progresses, all eyes remain on the Eldoret High Court, awaiting a verdict that could set a precedent for similar cases involving violent crimes within professional circles.
