Businessman Jimi Wanjigi’s defense team has accused police officers of theft during a 13-hour raid at his home in Muthaiga on the morning of August 9. The raid, involving around 200 armed officers, allegedly resulted in the theft of personal items from Wanjigi’s family, including his elderly mother.
During a court session, Wanjigi’s lawyer, Willis Otieno, stated that the officers stole money, wallets, and personal effects, including Wanjigi’s mother’s wallet, watches, and currency in both Kenyan Shillings and U.S. Dollars. Otieno described the raid as unlawful and stated that it took place in violation of a High Court order, labeling the officers as “robbers.”
Otieno further explained that the raid began after an earlier search had been conducted by a different team, during which items such as iPhones, iPads, and flags were confiscated. The second group of officers reportedly broke into the house after the first search had been completed and the home secured.
The defense team, comprising prominent figures like Paul Muite and Kalonzo Musyoka, criticized the police actions as malicious and in contempt of the court. They plan to file contempt proceedings against key government officials, including the Director of Public Prosecutions, Inspector General of Police, and the Director of Criminal Investigations.
Chief Magistrate Susan Shitubi ordered that Wanjigi and his assistant, David Kibe, be released on personal bonds of KSh10 million each. They were also instructed to surrender their passports.
Wanjigi faces charges related to the illegal possession of firearms, preparing to commit a felony, and refusing to provide his fingerprints. However, his lawyers argued that his firearm license had been revoked, claiming that the charges were politically motivated and legally flawed.
Further court proceedings are expected as Wanjigi’s legal team challenges the actions of the police and the legitimacy of the charges.