Renowned activist Boniface Mwangi was on Monday, July 21, released on a KSh 1 million personal bond after being charged with unlawful possession of ammunition at the Kahawa Law Courts.
Mwangi was arrested on Saturday evening at his home in Lukenya, Machakos County, by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The arrest was linked to his alleged role in the June 25 nationwide protests honouring victims of last year’s tax-related demonstrations.
No Terror Charges Filed
The DCI initially accused Mwangi of “facilitating terror,” stating that a search at his Hurlingham office in Nairobi recovered two unused tear gas canisters and one blank round of ammunition, which they cited as evidence of “intent to cause public disorder and fear.”
However, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) did not press terrorism-related charges. Instead, Mwangi faced two counts related to possession of ammunition without lawful authority.
Details from the Charge Sheet
According to the charge sheet seen by Kenya Coastal News, “On 19th July, 2025, at Mageuzi Hub, in Nairobi County… you were found in possession of noxious substances to wit three Teargas canisters… and one round of a 7.62 x51mm blank ammunition without lawful authority.”
Mwangi pleaded not guilty to both charges
Principal Magistrate Gedion Kiage released Mwangi on a personal bond, and the case is scheduled for mention on August 19.
The incident has sparked national debate on the handling of protests and freedom of expression in Kenya.
