Terror Suspect Convicted of Multiple Charges Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison

Terrorists raise their firearms during a previous incident.
Terrorists raise their firearms during a previous incident.
Photo
Reuters

The Siaya Court on Thursday sentenced a terror suspect, Abdul Bnajib Mohamed, to 20 years in prison for his involvement in terrorism activities contrary to the Prevention of Terrorism.

Mohamed, whose formal name is George Oluoch Awiti, was convicted of multiple charges while appearing before Siaya Law Court Senior Principal Magistrate Hon Simiyu.

Awiti was also found guilty of possessing terror related information articles and being a member of a terrorist group contrary to the laws of Kenya.

Following a review of the evidence and submissions made before him, the judge found the suspect guilty based on all counts presented by the office of the prosecutor.

Members of an Elite Police Force outside a Police Van
Members of an Elite Police Force outside a Police Van
Photo
Nairobi Leo

The prosecution, led by Soita Evans China, presented before the court convincing evidence including testimonies from three key witnesses.

The prosecution also tabled forensic analysis of Awiti's mobile phone, SIM card, and a compact disk containing extremist material.

The court was also told that the suspect was in possession of audios and videos that portrayed high terror-linked individuals on the intelligence red list. They included Aboud Rogo and Al Qaeda leader, the late Osama Bin Laden, who were depicted as martyrs.

The prosecution argued that the material's contents encouraged Jihad in Somalia and incited disobedience against the Kenyan government. 

The suspect was sentenced to serve a prison term of ten years for being a member of a terror group.

In addition he was also handed a further ten year term for collection of information related to terror and another ten years for being in possession of related articles that preach jihad and extremism.

The court however ruled that the sentences for the second and third charges will run concurrently. This therefore means that he will serve a total of 20 years in the correctional facilities.

Photo of Kamiti Maximum Prison
Photo of Kamiti Maximum Prison
Photo
Kenyans.co.ke
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