Nairobi, Kenya – (African Boulevard News) – In a shocking turn of events, a Kenyan court has acquitted Gilbert Deya, the self-proclaimed ‘miracle baby’ pastor, in a long-standing child trafficking case. Deya, a former stonemason who moved to London in the 1990s, was accused of stealing five children between 1999 and 2004.
The acquittal verdict was delivered on Tuesday by Justice Martha Koome, who cited lack of evidence against the controversial pastor. The case had drawn significant attention both within Kenya and internationally, raising questions about child trafficking and the activities of religious leaders.
Deya, the leader of the Gilbert Deya Ministries, claimed to have the power to deliver ‘miracle babies’ to infertile couples. The children at the center of the case were allegedly obtained through a “miraculous” process, involving the passage of embryos from the womb of one woman to another.
The prosecution argued that Deya orchestrated an elaborate trafficking network, exploiting vulnerable women and desperate couples. However, the defense maintained that the children were not stolen but were indeed born naturally or through other legitimate means.
“We are pleased with the court’s ruling,” said Deya’s lawyer, Philip Murgor. “This verdict confirms our client’s innocence and brings an end to years of baseless allegations against him.”
The case has sparked a heated debate in Kenyan society, with some viewing Deya as a fraudulent figure preying on the hopes of unsuspecting couples. Others, however, believe in his supposed ‘miracle’ abilities and see him as a victim of a larger conspiracy.
Child trafficking is a grave issue that plagues many countries, including Kenya. The acquittal of Deya raises concerns about the effectiveness of justice systems in combating such crimes and providing justice to the victims.
“Child trafficking is a reprehensible crime that violates the basic rights of children,” said child rights activist, Esther Mbula. “While we respect the court’s decision, it is crucial for law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant and investigate any potential child trafficking cases thoroughly.”
The verdict has disappointed many who had hoped for a different outcome. The case, with its sensational nature and religious undertones, had captivated public attention and put a spotlight on the need for stricter regulations and oversight of religious leaders and their activities.
As this high-profile case comes to a close, it is a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the rights and welfare of children and ensuring justice for victims of child trafficking. It also highlights the necessity for continued efforts to combat this heinous crime and hold individuals accountable for their actions.
The acquittal of Gilbert Deya may have brought closure to his legal battle, but it remains a contentious decision that has left many grappling with mixed emotions and renewed calls for stronger measures to prevent child trafficking in Kenya and beyond.
URLs:
1. Africanews: [https://www.africanews.com/2023/07/17/kenyan-court-acquits-miracle-baby-pastor-in-trafficking-case/]
2. Google search: [https://www.google.com/search?q=Kenyan+court+acquits++miracle+baby++pastor+in+trafficking+case]
