Ivory haul suspects released on DPP's application

A Mombasa court last evening granted the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP)’s application to release four people from custody pending investigations in connection with ivory seized in Thailand.

Senior resident magistrate Irene Ruguru granted the application made by senior prosecuting counsel Yamina Jami. The suspects include Victor Odhiambo Shikuku, Musa Kiptoo Koech, Irene Kipkoech Cheruiyota and Jonathan Kiprui Koech.

In his application, Mr Jami informed Ms Ruguru that while investigations were incomplete, they prosecution no longer wished to continue holding the suspects in custody.

“We wish to inform this honourable court that we wish not charge the respondents at this moment,” he added.

The prosecuting counsel further applied that the suspects be directed to report once after every two weeks at Port police station to assist with the investigations.

The suspects have been in custody for a month after being arrested in connection with 511 pieces of ivory weighing 3,127 kg that was netted in Thailand two months ago.

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In her ruling, Ms Ruguru directed all suspects to ensure they report to the police station on Wednesdays every fortnight.

However, the DPP told the court that it has prepared to charge two suspects, David Mwaroli Ali and Kenneth Mwangi Njuguna.

The court was informed that Mr Njuguna will be charged with alleged dealing of the Thailand ivory haul while six other suspects have already taken a plea.

Mr Jami further told the court that Mr Ali will be charged on another ivory related matter with another suspect he identified in court as Musa Lithare Jacob currently being held at Port police station.

The two suspects are set to be arraigned today before Mombasa Chief Magistrate Susan Shitubi to take plea.