Security Guard, Host, Welder Testify Against Matara in Starlet Wahu Murder Trial

The ongoing trial of John Matara for the murder of socialite Starlet Wahu intensified on Wednesday as three key witnesses presented chilling testimonies directly linking the defendant to the crime.

The accounts, corroborated by bloodstains, CCTV footage, and physical evidence, painted a grim picture of the events surrounding Wahu's death. The testimonies focused on events of January 3, 2024, the night of Wahu's murder. Charity Muthoni Irungu, a host at Meridian Court Apartments, testifies that she arranged accommodation for Matara through a colleague, Florence Ngina, after receiving a request from a friend.

She says that Matara specifically requested an apartment with a balcony and paid in cash upon arrival at approximately 5:50 PM. Muthoni further testifies that Ngina later alerted her that a security guard had witnessed Matara leaving the premises with a blood-soaked towel. Joseph Ndung'u, a security guard at Solace Park Apartments, testifies that he saw a man matching Matara's description leaving Papino Apartments with bloodstained trousers and a towel.

He reviewed CCTV footage, which showed the man exiting from the fourth floor, leaving a blood trail leading to apartment Y32. Ndung'u and a colleague contacted the police after discovering the apartment was locked. Law enforcement officials subsequently found Wahu's body inside. Antony Wafula, a welding instructor, testifies that he transported Matara from South B Hospital to Mbagathi Hospital for treatment of wounds on the night of the murder after being contacted by Matara's sister.

Police arrived at Mbagathi Hospital and linked Matara to the murder case. The prosecution's attempt to present CCTV footage has been challenged by the defense, which cites a lack of prior notification. Justice Alexander Muteti has overruled the objection, stating that the footage would be admitted in future hearings. Matara has pleaded not guilty to the charges.