Ian Njoroge has finally been released from remand following Sonko’s intervention [Photo]
19-year-old Ian Njoroge has finally been released from remand after Francis Wambua, an aide to former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, stood surety for him.
Documents obtained by Mpasho indicate that Njoroge secured his freedom after a Sh700,000 bond was posted.
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On Friday, June 7, 2024, Milimani Principal Magistrate Ben Mark Ekhubi ordered the release of the 19-year-old student on a Sh700,000 bond with a surety of the same amount.
Njoroge’s family was initially unable to secure the required surety, prompting Mike Sonko to step in.
Since Ian was denied a cash bail, his options were limited to depositing a motor vehicle log book or a title deed worth Sh700,000.
“In the upshot, I admit the accused person to a bond of Sh700,000 with a surety of a similar amount. There will be no alternative to a cash bail at this stage. However, parties will be at liberty to seek a review later,” stated Milimani Chief Principal Magistrate Ben Ekhubi.
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Ekhubi found the state’s arguments to deny Ian Njoroge’s bond unconvincing, as the prosecution failed to provide evidence that Ian’s life would be in danger if released.
“The prosecution had objected to his release for his own security. The argument that he should be detained for his safety cannot stand. I reject that argument. The investigating officer failed to give evidence to support this argument that he should be denied bail for his safety,” Ekhubi stated.
Following the ruling, Sonko offered one of his cars as surety for Ian Njoroge, on the condition that he doesn’t flee after being released from custody.
“With Ian Njoroge, his parents, relatives, and one of his lawyers, Mr. Okatch strategizing a few hours ago. Kwa hiyo mtachagua gari moja kati ya haya matatu. Chagua moja lenye wakili ataona kama linafaa na linaweza kusimamia dhamana ya Ian Njoroge, lakini hakikisha bora asitoroke,” Mike Sonko said.
