Collins 'Gattuso' Okoth finally takes plea after months in custody following medical examinations

Former footballer Collins 'Gattuso' Okoth and co-accused Silvia Aoko appeared in court to take plea after months in custody.

Former Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars midfielder Collins 'Gattuso' Okoth and his co-accused Silvia Aoko appeared before the High Court in Nairobi on Thursday to answer to murder charges in connection with the tragic death of a three-year-old girl.

The child, Scovian Maya, died under suspicious circumstances in April 2024, and both Okoth and Aoko were charged with her murder.

The case, which has shocked the country, saw Okoth and Aoko undergo several medical evaluations to assess their fitness to stand trial.

On Thursday, after months in custody, the results of those assessments were submitted to the court, and both were deemed fit to face the murder charges.

During the court appearance, the Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Gikui Gachuhi, vehemently opposed the release of the accused on bond.

“The court directed the prosecution to file an affidavit opposing bail within three days, with the defense to respond,” a statement from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions read.

The charges stem from the alleged murder of the three-year-old child, Scovian Maya, who is also known by the name Pamela Atieno, on the night of April 21-22, 2024.

According to court documents, the crime allegedly took place in Lucky Summer Estate, Ruaraka, in Nairobi, at around 1 a.m. on the tragic night. Both Okoth and Aoko have denied any involvement in the child’s death.

The circumstances surrounding the child's death remain unclear, but the accusations have sent shockwaves through the community and the country at large.

The tragedy of losing such a young life has prompted an emotional response from the public, particularly in the Lucky Summer neighborhood, where many residents have expressed their outrage and sorrow.

Before this case, Collins 'Gattuso' Okoth was best known for his illustrious football career.

He made his name playing for Gor Mahia, Kenya’s most decorated football club, after joining them in 2010 from Tusker FC.

A dynamic midfielder with a tough playing style, Okoth earned the nickname 'Gattuso,' a nod to the Italian football legend Gennaro Gattuso, due to his combative approach on the pitch.

He became a fan favorite, celebrated for his passion and grit during high-stakes matches.

In 2018, Okoth moved to AFC Leopards, continuing his football career, though injuries would eventually lead to his retirement.

After leaving the pitch, Okoth transitioned to a career as a football pundit, with his last public appearance being as a TV analyst for the Mashemeji Derby, a popular rivalry between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, at Nyayo National Stadium, just a day before the alleged crime took place.

Despite his storied football career, these serious accusations have cast a shadow over Okoth’s public persona.

Following the accusations in April, Okoth has been in custody at the Industrial Area Remand Prison in Nairobi. His co-accused, Silvia Aoko Odhiambo, is being held separately at Lang'ata Women's Prison.

The prosecution has made it clear that they will oppose any attempts to release the accused on bond, citing the severity of the charges.

The legal process will continue, with the next mention of the case scheduled for September 25, 2024.

The defense, meanwhile, is expected to respond to the prosecution's affidavit opposing bail.