Man denies attempt to murder wife

Mr Stephen Ngila Nthenge, who is suspected of chopping off his wife's hands at Kathama village in Machakos County, sits in a police vehicle after being charged with attempted murder at Wamunyu Law Courts on August 1, 2016. Mr Nthenge was charged with attempting to kill his 27-year-old wife on July 21. PHOTO | STEPHEN MUTHINI | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • He denied the charges and was sent to the Machakos GK remand until August 5, when the case will be mentioned.
  • Ms Mwende’s two hands were completely severed in the attack. She also sustained serious injuries on her head and her back.

A man suspected of chopping off his wife’s hands at Masii, Machakos County, was Monday charged with attempted murder.

Mr Stephen Ngila Nthenge, 34, was charged with attempting to kill his 27-year-old wife, Ms Jackline Mwende, on the night of July 21.

The suspect appeared before Wamunyu Law Court Resident Magistrate K. Kibellion.

He denied the charges and was sent to the Machakos GK remand until August 5, when the case will be mentioned.

He was also denied bond until the same date when the court will rule on the issue.

Ms Mwende’s two hands were completely severed in the attack. She also sustained serious injuries on her head and her back.

The two had been married for seven years but had not had a baby.

Ms Mwende had been admitted at Machakos Level Five Hospital where she was treated before being discharged on Friday.

She said the lack of a child caused friction between her and her husband.

Mr Nthenge stood pensively before the court as the charges were read to him.

A few of his relatives were also in court as he was being charged. They, however, did not wish to speak to the media. Security was tight as he was whisked away.