Makueni court has handed a significant sentence to Musyoki Mukula, a 59-year-old man found guilty of trafficking narcotics. Chief Magistrate Peter Gesora sentenced Mukula to either pay a fine of Sh1 million or serve an 11-year prison term. This verdict is aimed at curbing the rising issue of drug trafficking in the region.
The case against Mukula was brought to light when he appeared before the Makueni law courts and pleaded guilty to the charges. The incident occurred on July 3 along the Kalawa-Katangini road in Mbooni. Authorities apprehended Mukula in possession of 2 kilograms of cannabis sativa, popularly known as bhang, valued at Sh5,000. The substance was found in his black bag along with rolling materials, indicating his intent to distribute.
Christine Malonza, the chief of Makinya, provided crucial evidence in court, detailing Mukula’s activities. “The offender was carrying 2kgs of cannabis sativa that he was delivering to his customers at Katangini market. He also had rolling material in a black bag,” Malonza testified. Her testimony painted a clear picture of Mukula’s involvement in the drug trade.
Malonza further emphasized Mukula’s notoriety as a drug peddler within the Kalawa market. “The accused is a notorious drug peddler at Kalawa market and he is not fit to live within the community as he will continue selling drugs to the members of the public,” she added. This statement underscored the threat Mukula posed to the community’s well-being.
In his defense, Mukula admitted to selling the drugs as a means to support his children. He claimed that he was en route to Katangini to seek a casual job when he was apprehended. “I was on my way to Katangini to go and find a casual job to do and plead for a fair judgement,” Mukula told the court, appealing for leniency.
However, Probation Officer Damaris Malenge opposed any leniency in Mukula’s sentencing. She argued that the severity of his crimes warranted a stringent punishment. “Considering the above, it is my opinion that the accused is unsuitable for non-custodial sentence and he may be given an alternative verdict,” Malenge stated. Her recommendation was a crucial factor in the court’s final decision.
Chief Magistrate Gesora concurred with the arguments presented by the prosecution and the probation officer. He emphasized the need for a deterrent sentence to dissuade others from engaging in similar activities. “The accused is likely to resume his drug trafficking business if released back to the community and he is given a deterrent sentence to serve as a warning to the rest of the drug peddlers,” Gesora ruled.
This case highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Kenya, particularly in Makueni County. The stringent sentence imposed on Mukula reflects the judiciary’s commitment to eradicating the drug menace and safeguarding the community. The ruling serves as a stern warning to others involved in the narcotics trade, reinforcing the message that such activities will not be tolerated.
In conclusion, the Makueni court’s decision to fine Musyoki Mukula Sh1 million or impose an 11-year prison sentence marks a significant step in the fight against drug trafficking. The evidence presented and the testimonies provided a clear justification for the severe sentence. As the community grapples with the impact of drug trafficking, this ruling sets a precedent for future cases and underscores the importance of stringent measures to curb this illegal trade.
