This archive report was first published on 3 July 2019.
On October 16, 2017, the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations raided the Muthaiga home of businessman Jimi Wanjigi, just 10 days before the repeat presidential election.
According to a court ruling, 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.
During the raid, police seized four Glock pistols, one Smith & Wesson pistol, a Mini Archer assault rifle fitted with a laser, an M4CQ assault rifle, and 646 bullets.
High Court Judge Chacha Mwita said the search was illegal as no warrant had been issued, but the search held the following day was legal as a warrant had been issued that morning.
Justice Mwita ordered the security officers to return the seven guns, stating that once a firearm certificate has been issued, the police have no mandate to confiscate the holder's firearm without lawful cause.
