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A Nakuru court has allowed detectives seven days to detain four suspects arrested in connection with the kidnapping of a fourth-year student at Egerton University, pending investigations. 

Senior resident magistrate Yvonne Khatambi granted the orders after an application by the police, through the prosecution, for more time.

The magistrate, while concurring that the suspects were a flight risk, ordered that they be detained at Kaptembwo Police Station and be presented in court on February 8 for further directions.

The four — Simon Philip Amaya, Elijah Chege Gitau, John Mungai Mbao and Faith Mwende —  are said to have jointly kidnaped Daisy Chebet Barno in Kabarak, Nakuru County. 

They are facing charges of kidnapping and conspiracy to commit a felony. They were arrested on January 31.

The matter had been reported at Kaptembwo Police Station on January 27 by a security guard and a lecturer of the university after receiving a call from Chebet’s parents, from whom a ransom was being sought for Chebet’s release.

Investigating officer Colling Opiyo said the suspects were demanding Sh600,000.

While seeking custodial orders of 14 days, Opiyo said the offence was serious.

“The four are a flight risk, owing to the fact that they attempted to escape at the time of arrest. Also, we are yet to complete investigations and record statements from crucial witnesses,” he said.

He revealed that they were yet to get M-Pesa and bank statements of the suspects, adding that they intend to make more arrests and recoveries.

“If released, they would interfere with witnesses, and their lives might also be at risk. We are yet to get CCTV footage from the guesthouse where they were cornered. Also, a forensic analysis of their phones is yet to be done,” he said.

According to police, Chebet’s friend, Faith Mwende, conspired with her boyfriend and others to kidnap her and demand ransom from her family. The police seized a tape, rope, mobile phones, sim cards and the national identity card of the victim from the suspects.