Arrest Warrant Issued for Husband of Murdered Kenyan Athlete Agnes Tirop

Kenya has issued an arrest warrant for Ibrahim Rotich, husband of murdered athlete Agnes Tirop, after he failed to appear in court again. Tirop, known for her significant achievements in athletics, was stabbed to death in October 2021. Rotich, who denies the allegations, was previously released on bail and must now appear in court by April 8.

The Kenyan government has issued an arrest warrant for Ibrahim Rotich, the husband of late athlete Agnes Tirop, who is suspected of her murder. Rotich failed to attend court hearings twice, prompting a prosecutor to note he was “nowhere to be traced.” Tirop, a celebrated runner, was tragically killed at the age of 25 in October 2021, an event that resonated deeply within the athletics community.

Tirop garnered recognition as a double world 10,000m bronze medallist and the 2015 world cross country champion, and she notably set the women’s 10km road race world record shortly before her death. Her husband Rotich, 45, has denied involvement and claimed he was not responsible for her death, which authorities determined occurred at their residence in Iten, a well-known training region for athletes.

Eldoret High Court Judge Robert Wananda has mandated the police to locate Rotich and ensure he appears in court by April 8. He had previously been released on bail in November 2021 after spending two years in custody. As part of his bail conditions, he was prohibited from leaving Uasin Gishu County, where he resides. Prosecutors are pressing for the forfeiture of his cash bond due to his absences, stressing the need for accountability regarding his required check-ins at the police station.

The arrest warrant for Ibrahim Rotich highlights the ongoing concerns regarding the safety of female athletes in Kenya. Tirop’s case underscores a disturbing trend, as many female athletes have faced violence in recent years. The legal proceedings will be closely monitored as they progress, reflecting the judiciary’s response to gender-based violence in sports.

Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk