A former employee of the late businessman Tob Cohen has testified in court about the deep-seated marital conflict inside the couple's home prior to Cohen's death. Shilindwa Shishemi, who worked at the residence, detailed several specific incidents he observed in the days leading up to the tragic event. He described rising disagreements between the couple, including a dispute over property documents. Shishemi told the court that Cohen once instructed him to break open a safe to retrieve the documents.
Instead of breaking the safe, Shishemi informed Sarah Wairimu, who instructed him to do everything possible to prevent Cohen from accessing the files. This incident is part of the testimony Shishemi provided in court, offering a glimpse into the troubled relationship between Cohen and Wairimu. The trial continues, with the prosecution set to call additional witnesses. Sarah Wairimu maintains her innocence and denies all murder allegations.
Shishemi further detailed physical confrontations between the couple, including a late-night fight that left a lasting impression on him. He testified that he heard Cohen crying for help, saying "you are killing me, you are killing me." Shishemi stated that he found Cohen bleeding and crying for help, asking him to use his phone light to illuminate a head injury. This incident highlights the escalating violence in the couple's relationship.
In another instance, Shishemi reported finding Cohen lying on the floor near the staircase with Wairimu on top of him. This and other incidents described by Shishemi paint a picture of a relationship marked by violence and tension. The prosecution is presenting these incidents as evidence of the troubled relationship between Cohen and Wairimu.
Beyond physical fights, Shishemi testified to visible changes throughout the house, including torn sofas, missing belongings belonging to Cohen, and Cohen's bed stripped down to just a mattress and cover. These changes suggest a deeper level of conflict and disruption in the household. During this period, Wairimu allegedly informed Shishemi that Cohen had traveled out of the country.
However, Shishemi's understanding of the situation changed after media outlets began reporting Cohen as missing. He later watched television reports showing investigators discovering Cohen's body inside a septic tank at the couple's residence, which directly contradicted the earlier statements that Cohen had traveled abroad. This revelation has significant implications for the trial.
The trial continues, with the prosecution set to call additional witnesses. Sarah Wairimu maintains her innocence and denies all murder allegations. The case has garnered significant attention in Kenya, with many following the developments in the trial.
Key points
- A former employee of Tob Cohen testified in court about the marital conflicts and physical altercations between Cohen and his wife, Sarah Wairimu, before his death.
- The employee, Shilindwa Shishemi, detailed several specific incidents he observed, including physical confrontations and changes to the household.
- The trial continues, with the prosecution set to call additional witnesses, as Sarah Wairimu maintains her innocence and denies all murder allegations.
