Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir on Thursday appeared before the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Mombasa to record a statement regarding the gang rape of Mombasa-based blogger Bruce John. The governor’s move came after growing speculation about his involvement in the case, which has captured national attention.
Highlights:
- Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad voluntarily presents himself to the DCI over the gang rape case of blogger Bruce John.
- The governor calls for justice for Bruce John and urges investigators to expedite the case.
- Four suspects have already been charged in connection with the abduction and assault of the blogger.
Governor Abdulswamad: “No One Is Above the Law”
After recording his statement, Governor Abdulswamad addressed the media, emphasizing that he had not been summoned by the DCI but had come forward voluntarily. “I brought myself here on my own will because there is no one above the law. That cannot be. I have brought myself here as an example,” the governor stated.
He further reiterated his commitment to justice for Bruce John, calling the crime a heinous act and urging detectives to speed up their investigation. “I advocate for justice for Bruce and urge the detectives to hurry up and solve the case,” he told reporters.
The governor also expressed his readiness to cooperate fully with the investigation, even suggesting that his mother would be available to record a statement if required. This statement comes amid rumours linking his family to the crime, which he sought to debunk by voluntarily presenting himself to the authorities.
Blogger’s Abduction and Ordeal
Bruce John, a Mombasa-based blogger, had earlier recorded a TikTok video criticising the governor, both personally and regarding his leadership style. Soon after, he was abducted by a group of around 20 Mombasa youths, who reportedly told him he was being taken to apologise to the governor.
However, Bruce never met with the governor. Instead, he was subjected to torture and gang rape, an ordeal that was captured on video. The attackers reportedly threatened to release the footage if he ever spoke about the incident. Despite the threats, Bruce reported the case, leading to a national outcry for justice.
Four individuals, Muthoni John (alias Totoo), Violet Adera (alias Vayoo), Abdul Hassan Athman (alias Sindimba), and Haji Babu Ndau Mohamed (alias Achkobe), have been charged in connection with the abduction.
Governor’s Previous Statements
On September 30, Governor Abdulswamad held a press conference where he distanced himself from the case for the first time. He also revealed that Bruce John had sent him 800 messages, none of which he responded to. Additionally, he claimed that Bruce had broken into his mother’s home.
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The incident has sparked widespread debate, with many calling for swift justice and accountability for those involved. Governor Abdulswamad’s decision to voluntarily cooperate with investigators sends a strong message of transparency as the investigation unfolds. The case remains under investigation by the DCI.