The family of Alfie Migasha has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of a military officer allegedly responsible for assaulting their relative to death in Nairobi’s Umoja One estate.
Their demand follows the release of a post-mortem report which established that Alfie died from a blood clot in the lung.
Government pathologist Dr Johansen Oduor confirmed that the clot was directly linked to injuries Alfie sustained during the assault.
According to Dr Oduor, the fatal clot developed as a complication of a fractured leg Alfie suffered during the attack.
The family said the period since his death has been marked by anxiety and uncertainty, as they continue to wait for decisive action from authorities.
“I am appealing for justice and urging Kenyans to stand with me and help me at least get a vehicle to ferry his body back home,” Alfie’s distraught mother said.
CCTV footage recorded on December 22 shows a man attacking Alfie at an entertainment spot in Umoja One. Alfie later succumbed to his injuries.
Despite the existence of the footage, the suspect, who is alleged to be a military officer, has not yet been arrested.
Under Kenyan law, members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) can be held accountable for offences committed against civilians.
Such cases may be tried in civilian courts when the acts occur outside official duties, or before a court martial if they relate to military operations or breaches of discipline.
The Kenya Defence Forces Act and the Penal Code provide for severe penalties in cases of unlawful killing.
Murder carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, while manslaughter can also attract a life sentence if proven.
Killing through torture or cruel treatment is punishable by up to 25 years in prison or a fine of up to Sh10 million.
Additional administrative sanctions, including dismissal from service, reduction in rank, or loss of benefits, may also apply.
The case has drawn comparisons to previous incidents involving military personnel.
In October 2024, a 20-year-old university student disappeared after receiving a late-night call and was later found dead in a thicket in Mwiki, with signs of torture, including acid burns and a fractured leg.
Two military officers were arrested and charged with murder in the case.
In another incident in April 2024, a 30-year-old man was allegedly lured from his home by off-duty military personnel and others.
Video evidence showed the victim blindfolded and beaten before he later died from his injuries.
The suspects were arrested and are facing murder charges.
During the anti-Finance Bill protests in June 2024, a 27-year-old protester was fatally shot near Parliament.
Media investigations linked the incident to military personnel, with authorities reporting that arrests and dismissals were carried out as legal proceedings continue.
Alfie’s family has urged law enforcement agencies to act swiftly, saying accountability is critical to restoring public confidence and ensuring justice for victims of alleged abuse by security officers.
