Kenyan Court Issues Arrest Warrant for British Soldier Accused of 2009 Murder

Kenya Issues Arrest Warrant for British Soldier Accused of Murder A Kenyan court has issued an arrest warrant for Robert James Purkiss, a former British soldier accused of murdering Agnes Wanjiru in 2009. The development marks a significant milestone in the case, which has been ongoing for over a decade. Timeline: April 2012: Agnes Wanjiru, a 21-year-old woman, is found dead in her home in Nanyuki, Kenya. June 2012: British soldier Robert James Purkiss is identified as the prime suspect by Kenyan authorities. 2013: Purkiss returns to the UK and is interviewed by police, but no charges are filed. 2020: The Kenyan government requests assistance from the UK in bringing Purkiss to justice. Immediate Impact: The arrest warrant has been welcomed by Agnes Wanjiru's family, who have been fighting for justice since her death. "This is a major breakthrough," said Rose Wanyua, Wanjiru's sister. "We hope that Robert James Purkiss will finally face the consequences of his actions." Background Context: The case highlights the complexities of international cooperation in investigating and prosecuting crimes committed abroad. The UK and Kenya have a long-standing military relationship, with British troops training at Batuk, a British army base near Nanyuki. What Happens Next: Purkiss would need to be extradited from the UK to face charges in Kenya. The process is expected to be lengthy and complex, involving negotiations between the two governments. If convicted, Purkiss could face up to life imprisonment for Wanjiru's murder. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Theguardian reporting.*