A lorry driver has been arraigned in court over the fake cement scandal.
James Muriithi Anampiu was arraigned at Milimani Law Courts where police sought orders to detain him for 30 days to allow them to complete investigations.
Anampiu was arrested on 7th January 2024 after allegedly managing to run away during a raid on fake cement on 20th December 2024.
In the December raid, police managed to arrest 14 suspects who were later arraigned in court.
Sergeant Samuel Itegi told the court that investigations are yet to be completed, therefore, the suspect should remain in custody since he is a flight risk and can interfere with investigations.
“Our investigations are incomplete as more witnesses are yet to record their statements in regards to the matter,” Sergeant Itegi said.
The court also heard that the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) needs to analysis, with the view of ascertaining the quality and quantity of the confiscated cement.
However, Anampiu, through his lawyer told the court that he is not a flight risk and presented himself to the police station before being arrested.
The court heard that the part of investigations that is yet to be completed does not require the presence of the suspect, therefore, should be released on bail.
Principal Magistrate Gilbert Shikwe will deliver the ruling on the application on 9th January 2025.
