Actress and former television host Regina Wambui Gitau, popularly known as Regina Re, will remain in police custody for two more working days as detectives continue investigating the alleged murder of her 86-year-old mother, Dorita Lasinder Macharia.
Regina is among three suspects who were on Thursday ordered to remain in custody by Kibera Law Courts Magistrate Barbara Akinyi to allow investigators more time to complete their inquiries into the circumstances surrounding Macharia's death.
The prosecution had requested additional time to detain the suspects, arguing that detectives were yet to conclude investigations into the alleged murder.
After considering the application, Magistrate Akinyi granted police two additional working days to continue gathering information and examining evidence related to the case.
The decision means Regina and the two other suspects will remain behind bars as investigators pursue outstanding inquiries before determining the next course of action.
However, the court ordered the release of another suspect, Immanuel Walgwe Munyeki, who had also been arrested in connection with the death of the elderly woman.
Munyeki's release comes as detectives continue to examine the circumstances surrounding Macharia's death and establish whether those arrested had any involvement in the incident.
The additional period granted to investigators is expected to give the prosecution more time to assess the available evidence and determine whether there are sufficient grounds to prefer criminal charges against the three suspects.
At the end of the detention period, police are expected to make a decision on whether to charge the suspects or take any further legal steps as permitted by the court.
The court's decision to extend their detention is an investigative measure and does not amount to a determination of their guilt.
Regina Re, who has previously worked in the entertainment industry as an actress and television presenter, is now at the centre of a police investigation involving the death of her mother.
The case has drawn attention because of the public figure's involvement and the circumstances surrounding the death of the 86-year-old woman.
For now, detectives are expected to use the additional two working days to complete their investigations before returning to court with an update.
The next steps will determine whether Regina and the two other suspects will face formal charges in connection with Macharia's death or whether investigators will seek further directions from the court.
