A former British soldier has appeared in a London court to contest his extradition to Kenya, where he faces an allegation of murder dating back to 2012.
Court Proceedings Begin
Robert James Purkiss, 38, stood before Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday, where he formally stated he did not consent to being sent to Kenya. District Judge Briony Clarke directly addressed the former soldier, informing him, "You are sought by Kenya to face this allegation of murder. You face a very serious allegation."
The case centres on the death of 21-year-old Agnes Wanjiru, whose body was discovered in a septic tank in the town of Nanyuki, Kenya. The court heard that her remains were "significantly decomposed" when found weeks after her disappearance. A post-mortem examination revealed she had suffered a 2cm stab wound to her lower abdomen and a collapsed lung.
Allegations of a Confession
Home Office barrister Joel Smith KC presented details of the case against Purkiss, alleging the former soldier had "confessed" to what he described as a "brutal murder." The court was told that rumours had circulated on the army camp in the days following the incident, suggesting the defendant had killed someone.
In an alleged confession, Purkiss is said to have told a colleague that "it was sex that went wrong." Mr Smith outlined a pattern of behaviour where soldiers, including the defendant, would take time off, drink heavily, and pay local women for sex, often at the Lions Court Hotel.
Agnes Wanjiru was last seen alive leaving this hotel with a soldier. As she departed, she reportedly told a friend in her local language that she was going to 'hustle for her daughter.'
Family's Plea for Justice
Representing the former soldier, David Josse KC stated that his client "vehemently denies" the murder charge. Despite this, the family of Agnes Wanjiru continue their long wait for justice.
Through their spokesperson, Esther Njoki, who is also Wanjiru's niece, the family expressed their dissatisfaction with the slow progress of the judicial process. "We urge the United Kingdom to expedite the extradition on their end so that there are no more delays in this case," she said.
A UK government spokesperson commented in September, stating, "Our thoughts remain with the family of Agnes Wanjiru, and we remain absolutely committed to helping them secure justice."
Purkiss has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear again at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 14 November.
