40 suspects freed after invasion of late tycoon Kirima's Tumaini Estate

• The posh Tumaini Estate in Nairobi's Pipeline area along Outering Road is at the center of a long-running, volatile land and property ownership dispute tied to the estate of the late former Starehe MP and tycoon, Gerishon Kirima.

The Makadara Law Courts has released on cash bail 40 suspects arrested after goons armed with a pistol, bows and arrows invaded the late Kirima Tumaini Estate in Embakasi, destroying property worth millions of shillings.

Upon reviewing the case, Judge H.M. Mbati of the Makadara Law Courts revealed that the prosecution had not given any compelling reason to deny the suspects bail or bond terms.

"I've listened to both parties and have not heard any compelling reasons to deny the accused persons bail or bond. I therefore release them on a Ksh.30,000 bond with one surety of a similar amount or Ksh.15,000 cash bail. Right of Appeal, 14 days," ruled the judge.

The decision was, however, opposed by Kirima's widow, Teresia Kirima, who said her life is in danger and alleged that some people are after the estate she manages.

"Persons that have been accused here have no known place of abode, it is not known where they come from. It is only stated they come from Kajiado. Nobody has established where they come from," the prosecution's lawyer, Wilfred Nyamu, stated.

"The situation at Tumaini is volatile. Releasing these goons is actually a recipe for chaos because when they are released at a paltry Ksh.15,000 with no conditions, they are just going to that place."

Residents also opposed the release, saying they are now living in fear. The court will give directions on the case on October 28.

The posh Tumaini Estate in Nairobi's Pipeline area along Outering Road is at the center of a long-running, volatile land and property ownership dispute tied to the estate of the late former Starehe MP and tycoon, Gerishon Kirima.

Tension recently escalated after the 40 suspects invaded Tumaini Estate, demolishing a perimeter wall, attacking residents, and causing widespread traffic disruption along Outering Road between Donholm and Fedha.

Police intervened at the scene and apprehended the suspects linked to the raid.