Two Kenyans, Somali national accused of terrorism denied bond

Two Kenyans and a Somali national facing terror-related charges will remain in custody for a month after a Nairobi court denied them bond on Tuesday.

Kenyans Noor Yakub Ali and Yusuf Maalim, and Isaq Cabdi Xasan of Somalia are accused of orchestrating an attack against Kenyan security officers and being members of the al-Shabaab terror group.

The trio is charged with conspiring to commit a terrorist act in Mandera town on or before February 18, 2025.

Principal magistrate Gideon Kiage of the Kahawa Law Courts ruled in favour of the prosecution, finding that there are compelling reasons to restrict the trio’s rights due to the seriousness of the case.

“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,” ruled Justice Kiage.

During that attack, one police officer lost his life, another sustained serious injury, and two firearms were taken.

The court deferred the decision on bail and bond for 30 days to allow the prosecution to finalise disclosures and secure any evidence they intend to rely upon.