Ongeri’s decomposed body was discovered in a forest in Nandi County five years ago, sparking a prolonged investigation into his untimely death.
Appearing before Eldoret High Court Judge Reuben Nyakundi, Asuman, who operates his herbal medicine business across Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda, distanced himself from the crime.
He stated that he was in Uganda when the incident occurred and expressed his shock upon hearing about the death of Ongeri, who had been both his client and friend.
Asuman further emphasized that there was no substantial evidence linking him to the murder.
The case revolves around the discovery of a bag that police had seized from Asuman, initially suspecting it to belong to the deceased nurse.
However, during the court proceedings, it was revealed that the bag contained Asuman’s personal belongings, including his passport, national ID, and a practicing certificate for his herbalist trade.
This evidence appeared to contradict earlier claims made by authorities about the ownership of the bag.
Asuman has been charged with the murder of Ongeri, which allegedly took place between July 24 and July 27, 2019, in the remote Kimondi Forest, Nandi County.
Ongeri had been reported missing after reportedly negotiating a promotion for nurses with officials from the Kisumu County health department.
His body was found days later by a herdsman, sparking a frantic search by his colleagues, friends, and family.
Despite his defense, Asuman’s bid for bail was denied after the prosecution argued that he posed a flight risk.
The court noted that the accused might attempt to flee given his cross-border operations, which include his herbal business in multiple East African countries.
The case is scheduled for a mention on January 16, 2025, when the court will review whether both the defense and prosecution have filed their submissions.
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