A Nairobi court on Tuesday denied bond to two Kenyan nationals and a Somali citizen accused of terrorism-related offenses, ordering their continued detention for 30 days.
Principal Magistrate Gideon Kiage of the Kahawa Law Courts ruled against granting bail to Noor Yakub Ali and Yusuf Maalim, both Kenyans, and Isaq Cabdi Xasan, a Somali national. The three suspects are facing grave charges, including conspiracy to commit a terrorist act in Mandera town and alleged membership in the outlawed terror group al-Shabaab.
The charges stem from a deadly attack that occurred on or before February 18, 2025, in which a police officer was killed, another critically injured, and two firearms were stolen. The prosecution argued that the suspects played a key role in planning and executing the assault targeting Kenyan security personnel.
In his ruling, Magistrate Kiage emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and the need to consider public safety. “This is a serious matter which the defence does not deny. Given the nature of the attack and the gravity of the charges, the court finds the prosecution’s concerns valid and grounded in precedent related to this case,” he stated.
The prosecution maintained that releasing the suspects would pose a significant security threat, citing the possibility of interference with investigations and witnesses. The court concurred, stating that compelling reasons existed to limit the suspects’ right to bail under Kenyan law, especially in cases involving terrorism.
The decision to deny bond was also influenced by the need for the prosecution to complete its disclosure of evidence. The court deferred the bail and bond ruling for 30 days, during which the prosecution is expected to finalize all submissions and secure critical evidence for trial.
The case underscores Kenya’s continued legal and security efforts to combat terrorism, particularly in regions bordering Somalia, where al-Shabaab has previously carried out attacks. The three suspects will remain in custody as investigations proceed.
