A man has been slapped with a 20-year prison term for his involvement in terror-related activities.
The sentence was handed down by the Siaya Law Court presided over by Senior Principal Magistrate Simiyu on Thursday, August 29, 2024.
According to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), George Oluoch Awiti, who also goes by the alias Abdul Najib Mohamed, was convicted on multiple charges, including membership in a terror organization, possessing terror-related materials, and collecting terror information.
“Siaya Law Court Senior Principal Magistrate Hon. Simiyu has sentenced George Oluoch Awiti, alias Abdul Najib Mohamed, to 20 years in prison for his involvement in terror activities. Awiti was convicted on multiple charges of membership in a terror group, collection of terror-related information, and possession of articles related to terror acts,” the ODPP stated.
The ODPP stated that the prosecution, led by Soita Evans China, presented compelling evidence against Awiti. This included testimonies from three crucial witnesses and forensic analysis of his mobile phone, SIM card, and a compact disk containing terror content.
According to the ODPP, the evidence contained audio and video recordings that praised individuals like Aboud Rogo and terror leaders as martyrs and incited resistance against the Kenyan government. The materials also offered incentives for participating in terror and encouraged prisoners to remain patient.
“The prosecution, through Soita Evans China, presented compelling evidence including testimonies from three key witnesses and forensic analysis of Awiti’s mobile phone, SIM card, and a compact disk containing terror material,” the statement read in part.
“The evidence included audio and videos that portrayed figures such as Aboud Rogo as martyrs and incited disobedience against the Kenyan government. The materials also promised rewards for those engaging in terror and urged patience among prisoners.”
After a thorough review of the evidence and arguments presented, Awiti was convicted of all charges.
He received a 10-year sentence for being part of a terror organization, another 10 years for gathering information, and an additional 10 years for possessing related materials.
The sentences for the latter two charges will be served simultaneously, leading to a cumulative imprisonment of 20 years.
“The sentences for Counts 2 and 3 will run concurrently, resulting in a total of 20 years imprisonment.”