A court in Dadaab has ordered the exhumation of orphan Safiya Hussein Bilal to allow a second autopsy as investigators push forward with a murder probe involving four detained suspects.
Senior Principal Magistrate Evans Muleka issued the directive on Tuesday, requiring Safiya’s relative, Hussein Bilal, to point out the gravesite so that forensic specialists can begin the process.
According to the ODPP, the Chief Government Pathologist will supervise the exhumation and the repeat post-mortem, while experts from the Government Chemist collect samples for examination. The DCI will document every stage of the procedure, with the Fafi Subcounty Public Health Officer handling safety protocols during the operation.
The court also allowed Hussein Bilal to be present or appoint his own pathologist. Dr Chweya Arthur, who conducted the first autopsy, will attend the second examination.
The order comes as four suspects—Shafa Bilal Sharkane, Abubakar Abdullahi, Halima Muhumud Mogow and Zeynab Salat Samatar—remain in custody for 20 days. Investigators sought more time to complete DNA sampling, record witness accounts and ensure the safety of both the accused and residents due to the area’s closeness to the Somalia border.
The four are being investigated for the killing of Safiya, a Grade 9 student at a Garissa school. The DPP is expected to press murder charges once experts complete the fresh autopsy and review the findings.
The case will be mentioned on December 10, 2025, as authorities conclude forensic procedures. Officials noted that the exhumation will be carried out under strict standards to protect the integrity of the evidence.
The incident has drawn attention to the work of law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice for vulnerable children and ensuring those responsible face the law.
