Couple charged with murder of a family of nine

A couple suspected of being behind an arson incident that claimed nine lives in Sigomere, Siaya County was on Monday arraigned in a Siaya Court and charged with murder.

Christopher Owino and his wife, Roseline Atieno Okello appeared before Siaya High Court Judge, Justice David Kemei where they faced nine counts of murder.

They were accused of murdering Ouma Opondo Adalla and his wife, Jecinter Anyango together with their children, Seline Atieno Ouma, Lyon Otieno Ouma, Loela Atieno Ouma, Loice Achieng Ouma, Davis Ochieng Ouma, Rayan Odhiambo Ouma, and Melvin Ochieng Ouma.

They, however, denied the charges and, through their lawyer, Philip Obado pleaded to be released on bond.

However, the prosecution, led by Evans Soita opposed their application.

Justice Kemei postponed the ruling on their bail application until June 9, 2025.

The family was buried early this month at their Upanda village home in Ugunja Sub-County.