Ian Njoroge, the 19-year-old a student filmed assaulting a police officer, has been released from remand after former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko’s intervention.
Njoroge was arrested on Sunday, June 2 for beating up a traffic cop and allegedly robbing him of a communication gadget.
Milimani principal magistrate Ben Mark Ekhubi initially ordered Njoroge’s release on a Ksh 700,000 bond and a surety of a similar amount.
However, Njoroge’s family was unable to secure the required surety, prompting Sonko to step in.
Sonko, through his aide offered one of his cars as a surety on condition that he should not flee when released from custody.
In a video seen by The Kenya Times, Sonko is seen sorting through documents, believed to be his car logbooks while addressing Ian Njoroge’s Lawyer.
Also Read: Why Ian Njoroge will Spend Weekend Behind Bars Despite his Release [EXPLAINER]
“So, you will choose one car from these three. Choose the one that the lawyer will see fit and can adequately serve as surety for Ian Njoroge bond, but make sure he doesn’t flee,” said Mike Sonko.
Prosecutors Argument Regarding Ian Njoroge’s Release
His release came despite an argument presented by prosecution lawyers, that Njoroge should be detained for his own safety.
The prosecution argued that his release would put him in imminent danger given his hostile relationship with the police.
According to the police, other officers wanted revenge for the alleged assault and therefore the argument that the suspect would not be safe outside the cells.
Also Read: Police Officer That Arrested Ian Njoroge Among Cops Arrested; Here’s Why
“That due to the publicity of the matter, the situation on the ground is hostile towards the accused person. There is imminent danger to the accused person due to public agitation,” DCI Investigating Officer Josephat Rotich said in an affidavit.
Court Ruling on Ian Njoroge’s Case
However, Milimani Senior Principal Magistrate dismissed the argument noting that it was “ghastly thought” coming from the police.
The magistrate also ruled that the robbery with violence charge against Njoroge was unconstitutional citing section 96 (2) of the Penal Code where the said offence was anchored was declared unconstitutional by the High Court.
Additionally, the court stated that the application by the prosecution that Njoroge should not be released on bail and/or bond because he is a flight risk is implausible since it is not supported by any evidence.
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