In a shocking turn of events, a principal suspect in the alleged abduction and gang rape of a Mombasa blogger is now believed to have been in communication with Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir. The new developments were revealed by Irene Karuga, the lead investigating officer in the case, during proceedings before Shanzu Resident Magistrate Robert Mbogo.
According to Karuga, the prime suspect, Omar Ali Mohammed, commonly known as “Nyanya” and alleged to be the ringleader, had informed the victim that he would be meeting Governor Nassir at the Tamarind Hotel in Nyali, Mombasa. The meeting, which was purportedly meant to facilitate reconciliation, stemmed from a viral video in which the blogger had harshly criticized the governor.
However, upon arriving at the Tamarind Hotel, the blogger was informed that Governor Nassir had left for a nearby hotel to attend a gym session. Karuga detailed how the victim was later directed toward a dark grey Nissan Note parked nearby, where he was allegedly forced into the car and violently assaulted. The motive for the brutal attack is believed to be linked to the viral video in which the blogger accused Nassir of having an inappropriate relationship with Mombasa County Women Representative Zam Zam Chimba Mohammed.
“The video content was inflammatory, and the comments it attracted are believed to have triggered the abduction and subsequent assault on the blogger,” Karuga testified in court.
Further investigations have revealed that the assault took place at a construction site under the Mombasa County Ministry of Tourism and Trade. The detectives believe that this government-funded site served as the location for the brutal crime.
Karuga has requested that the court deny bail to the suspect, citing his risk of fleeing. According to the investigating officer, Mohammed had allegedly arranged the rental vehicle used in the crime and was apprehended while attempting to cross into Tanzania.
Facing multiple charges, including gang rape, assault causing bodily harm, abduction, and conspiracy to commit a felony, Mohammed has pleaded not guilty. State Counsel Nadra Mazuri has requested that his case be consolidated with those of four other suspects facing similar charges.
Magistrate Mbogo is expected to deliver a ruling on the bail application this Friday. Until then, Mohammed remains in remand at Shimo La Tewa GK Prison.
