This archive report was first published on 2 July 2019.
On October 16, 2017, just 10 days before the repeat presidential election, police raided the Muthaiga home of businessman Jimi Wanjigi, seizing four Glock pistols, one Smith & Wesson pistol, a Mini Archer assault rifle, an M4CQ assault rifle, and 646 bullets.
According to court documents, the raid was allegedly politically motivated, with the opposition and activists claiming the search was unjustified.
High Court judge Chacha Mwita has since ruled that the security officers violated Mr Wanjigi's rights by raiding his home without a warrant, despite a court order barring the search and seizure of the firearms.
On July 2, 2019, the High Court ordered the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to return the seven guns to Mr Wanjigi.
Justice Mwita stated that once a firearm certificate has been issued, the police have no mandate to confiscate the holder's firearm without lawful cause.
