A Kirinyaga court has granted bond to John Muriithi Karaya, the owner of California Bar, where 17 people tragically lost their lives after consuming illicit brew in Kangai and Mutithi villages in Mwea West Sub-county.
Justice Richard Mwongo of the Kerugoya Law Courts released Karaya on a Ksh1 million bond with a surety of the same amount.
The case, which has drawn national attention, will be mentioned again on January 16, 2024. Karaya, represented by lawyer Kemunto Magara, had initially applied for bond on April 11, 2024, but his request was dismissed.
The court, however, allowed for the application to be reconsidered after testimony from seven witnesses had been heard, a process completed within 90 days of the initial ruling.
Karaya faces two serious charges: causing the deaths of 17 individuals and stealing exhibits stored at Kiamaciri Police Station.
His lawyer assured the court that he would comply with all directives, including the condition that he resides outside Kirinyaga County.
The tragedy, which occurred earlier in the year, also implicated other individuals. Karaya was initially charged alongside his brother, Anthony Muthee, the owner of Muiguru Bar, as well as Lydiah Wanjiru and four police officers from Kiamaciri Police Station: Francis Mutethia, Allan Kimanzi, Brian Kariuki, and Kennedy Mugambi.
These co-accused were granted bond on April 12, 2024.
The court’s decision to release Karaya on bond has reignited discussions around accountability and justice for the victims of the illicit brew crisis, which devastated the affected communities.
Further proceedings in January are expected to shed more light on the case and its broader implications.
