Court opened at JKIA to speed up cases on drugs and wildlife trafficking

The Judiciary has opened a new court at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in efforts to speed up cases involving traffickers of humans, drugs and wildlife trophies.

The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) said the move will help rein in a menace that has gripped the country in the recent past.

In the past, security agents have had to transport suspected criminals all the way to Makadara and Kibera Law Courts in Nairobi, kilometres away from JKIA.

“The authority in collaboration with the Judiciary thought it wise to facilitate the delivery of justice at JKIA for matters arising in the aviation industry touching on JKIA and Wilson Airport,” said acting KAA managing director Yatich Kangugo.

Chief Justice Willy Mutunga said the court will speed up justice delivery as the cases will be conducted right at the airport other than being taken to Kibera or Makadara.

“Currently, offences committed within the two airports are usually tried at Kibera and Makadara law courts, which are very busy and the matters tend to take long before conclusion,” said Dr Mutunga.

He said that at times the delay leads to destruction of exhibits or suspects jumping bail and that the distance between JKIA and the courts sometimes leads to security lapses and breaches occasioned by dangerous suspects.

JKIA has handled over 400 cases since July 2015. About 283 traffic cases, 92 petty offences, and 79 criminal cases.

Construction of Judiciary offices and law courts at JKIA, by Policol International Company Ltd started in September last year by renovating and refurbishing spaces formerly occupied by Swiss Port Cargo offices.

The facility, which sits on 292 square metres and accommodates more than 15 offices, is part of wider renovation and modernisation works at JKIA.

KAA fully funded the venture. “We in KAA consider the resources spent on this facility as our gift to justice,” said the acting MD.

Mr Kangugo said that they will continue to work closely with the Judiciary to promote and maintain security and safety in all air ports in the country.