A court in Dadaab, Garissa County, has directed the exhumation of Safiya Hussein Bilal, a young orphan whose death is under active investigation, to allow for a repeat post-mortem examination. The move comes amid ongoing inquiries into the circumstances surrounding her killing.
Senior Principal Magistrate Evans Muleka issued the order, instructing a relative of the deceased, Hussein Bilal, to identify the exact burial site to facilitate the process. The exhumation will be conducted under the supervision of the Chief Government Pathologist, who will also lead the second autopsy. Specialists from the Government Chemist will collect samples for detailed forensic analysis.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has been tasked with documenting the procedure, while the Fafi Sub-County Public Health Officer will ensure that all health and safety protocols are strictly adhered to during the exhumation. The court further directed that Hussein Bilal, or a designated representative, be present throughout the procedure. Dr. Chweya Arthur, who performed the initial autopsy, is also expected to attend.
This development follows the arrest of four suspects Shafa Bilal Sharkane, Abubakar Abdullahi, Halima Muhumud Mogow, and Zeynab Salat Samatar who remain in custody in connection with the killing of the Grade 9 refugee student at a local school in Garissa. The suspects have been remanded for 20 days as investigators continue to gather evidence.
Authorities explained to the court that additional time is required to obtain crucial forensic evidence, including DNA samples and witness statements, while also ensuring the safety of all parties involved due to the area’s proximity to the Somalia border.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) confirmed that murder charges are expected to be formally filed once the new forensic findings are complete. “The exhumation is expected to provide crucial forensic evidence to support ongoing investigations and aid in the prosecution of those responsible for Safiya Hussein Bilal’s death,” the ODPP said in a statement.
The case is scheduled for mention on December 10, 2025, as investigators await the results of the renewed forensic examination.
