Kenya Issues Arrest Warrant for British Soldier Accused of 2009 Murder

Kenya Issues Arrest Warrant for British Soldier in Agnes Wanjiru Case 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 13 years. Timeline and Details Agnes Wanjiru, a 21-year-old woman, was found dead at a hotel in Nanyuki, Kenya, on April 18, 2009. An investigation by the Kenyan police implicated Purkiss, who was serving with the British Army at the time. The case was initially dropped due to lack of evidence, but it was reopened in 2012 after new information came to light. Immediate Impact and Response The arrest warrant has been welcomed by Agnes Wanjiru's family, who have been campaigning for justice for over a decade. "This is a significant step towards bringing my sister's killer to justice," said Rose Wanyua, Agnes' sister. The British government has confirmed that it will cooperate with the Kenyan authorities. Background Context The case highlights the complexities of international jurisdiction and the challenges of prosecuting crimes committed abroad. The British Army has faced criticism for its handling of the case, with some accusing the military of attempting to cover up Purkiss's involvement. What Happens Next Purkiss would need to be extradited from the UK to face charges in Kenya. The extradition process is expected to be lengthy and complex, involving negotiations between the two governments. The outcome will depend on various factors, including the strength of evidence against Purkiss and the willingness of the British government to cooperate with the Kenyan authorities. This development marks a significant step towards justice for Agnes Wanjiru's family, but it is just the beginning of a long and complex process. As the case unfolds, it will raise important questions about international jurisdiction, military accountability, and the pursuit of justice in cases involving foreign nationals. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Theguardian reporting.*