Just two years after assuming office the close association between Directorate of Criminal Investigations boss George Kinoti and Director of Public Prosecutions Noordin Haji is currently at stake fueled by the release of corrupt Kenya Ports Authority boss Dan Manduku and Kenya Revenue Authority commissioner for customs Kevin Safari on Tuesday, March 3.
A report by a local publication indicated that Kinoti took over the case himself without the knowledge of the DPP’s office further stating that DPP Haji only learnt of the arrest of Manduku and Safari through the media, as DCI officers claimed that they were frustrated by efforts by DPP Haji to handle cases because files which dated back to April 2019 still lay lazy at Haji’s office.
In court, the DCI had prepared a charge sheet but DPP’s officers refused to register the sheet arguing that the DCI had defied their directive to review Manduku’s case independently.
“It is very unfortunate the DCI decided to drag the persons to court in total disregard of the DPP’s directive that he needs to do an independent review of the file. The DPP is very disappointed about the way the case is being conducted,” Joseph Riungu, Haji’s assistant stated.
“It is a difficult matter and situation for the DCI. I don’t understand the differences between us and the prosecution since we followed due diligence, prepared the charge sheet and brought the suspects to court,” Gituathi Njoroge, lead investigator responded for Kinoti’s side.
The magistrate, Kenned Cheruiyot, was forced to free Manduku and Safari after failed to take pleas out of the drama that ensued. Cheruiyot stated that DCI officials had to seek court audience through the DPP’s office.
