An arrest warrant has been issued for Alfred Mbugua Gicheha, a suspect involved in the illegal possession of endangered wildlife trophies, after he failed to attend multiple court sessions since his initial arrest in May 2023. The decision was made by the JKIA Senior Principal Magistrate’s Court after Gicheha absconded court summons for 14 months, despite being released on a Ksh.3 million bond.
The case against Gicheha dates back to May 24, 2023, when he was arrested in Sipili, Laikipia West Sub-County, by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). Gicheha was apprehended after he was found driving a vehicle that contained 23 pieces of game trophies, weighing approximately 110.5 kilograms. These trophies, which included the remains of endangered wildlife, had a street value of approximately Ksh.11,050,000.
Following his arrest, Gicheha was charged with dealing in endangered wildlife trophies before the JKIA Senior Principal Magistrate’s Court on May 27, 2023. However, instead of attending subsequent court sessions, the suspect failed to appear, despite being legally obligated to do so. This ongoing absence led the presiding magistrate to issue an arrest warrant for Gicheha in a bid to ensure that he faces the charges levied against him.
The DCI, which is spearheading the investigation, has expressed concern over Gicheha’s continued failure to attend court proceedings, noting that such actions not only hinder the administration of justice but also have serious implications for the protection of endangered wildlife. As part of the effort to track him down, the DCI has called on members of the public to provide any information that could assist in his apprehension. They are urging anyone with knowledge of Gicheha’s whereabouts to come forward.
The case highlights the ongoing issue of illegal wildlife trafficking in Kenya, where game trophies from endangered species are sold on the black market, threatening biodiversity and violating conservation laws. The DCI continues to take action against individuals involved in such illegal activities, emphasizing its commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws and ensuring that perpetrators face the full weight of the law.
As authorities intensify efforts to locate Gicheha, the public’s assistance remains crucial in bringing him to justice and upholding Kenya’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
