Nigerian charged with possession of drugs worth Ksh.66M

A Nigerian national, who was arrested last week in a sting operation was arraigned to answer to narcotic drug trafficking charges.

Austine Obinwanne Igwilo appeared before JKIA Principal Magistrate Lucas Onyina where he pleaded not guilty for possession of heroine with a market value of Ksh.66 million. He was arrested in Savannah Estate Phase IV where police recovered drugs.

The prosecution claims that that on 2nd of November at Msafari Court in Donholm estate, Nairobi, together with others who were not before the court, were found in possession of heroin.

Igwilo requested to be released on bail, something the prosecution objected saying that “he has a flight pending and will abscond court if released.”

“The prosecution has not presented any compelling reasons, he is still innocent until proved otherwise,”argued the defense team.

The court was told that the said rental house was just a storage house and cannot be in any way termed as place of fixed abode adding that he has no residence visa and has been using a tourist visa.

“Court should bear in mind the seriousness of the offense and severity of the sentences to be imposed if convicted,” argued the prosecution side.

The defense objected to the application to have him remanded pending hearing and determination of his case saying that the accused is very much aware that he is Nigerian national and if he absconds, court has law on its side.

Court will on 15th of this month deliver its ruling.