The year was 2013 when popular crime buster in the Kasarani and Githurai areas allegedly shot dead two brothers suspected to be robbers.
Officer Titus Ngamau Musila, alias Katitu or King’ei, who was stationed at Kasarani police station, was accused that on April 14, 2013, he killed Kenneth Kimani Mwangi and Oscar Muchoki during an operation in Githurai 45.
Katitu then shot into the limelight after hundreds of residents, in support of the operation to wipe out criminals in the area, blocked Thika Superhighway for a week protesting his arrest.
The residents argued that Katitu had improved their security in the then crime-prone areas of Kasarani, Githurai 45, Zimmerman and Githurai Kimbo.
Their efforts were futile and the cop was found to have a case to answer.
Over five years later, the former cop has finally been convicted. High court Judge James Wakiaga said the prosecution has proved that Katitu intentionally killed Kenneth Mwangi.
Justice Wakiaga said it was proved beyond reasonable doubt that the officer shot the deceased at close range three times leading to his death.
“After evaluating evidence laid before the court I find that the accused had malice to murder the deceased,” Wakiaga said.
“I find the accused guilty of the charge and convict him accordingly,” the judge said.
The Judge noted that the officer, even though was fighting crime, was expected to protect the life of Kenneth by handcuffing him and taking him into custody instead of shooting him in the head.
In his defence, Katitu had earlier said he was posted in the area 10 years before the incident at a time when “shoes were being sold while still on their owners’ feet”.
The Judge declined to accept the argument that Katitu was loved by residents for his resilient in fighting crime saying justice does not recognise popularity.
He, however, directed a probation officer to hand in a report before February 27, when Katitu will be sentenced.
