The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has secured the conviction of a Somali national linked to the militant group Al-Shabaab following a successful prosecution at the Kahawa Magistrates’ Court.
Abdikarim Hassanow Hassan, also known as Ali, was sentenced after the prosecution presented four witnesses to support its case.
The court handed him multiple sentences, including 10 years’ imprisonment for being a member of a terrorist organisation and another 10 years for organising a meeting in support of the group.
DPP secures conviction of Somali national linked to Al-Shabaab. Photo: Courtesy.
He received additional 10-year sentences for offences related to radicalisation, recruitment, and facilitating the recruitment of members into a terrorist organisation, as well as for financing travel for terrorism purposes.
According to the prosecution, Hassanow was found to have been a member of Al-Shabaab on or before April 2, 2024, in Kehancha Township, Migori County.
The court heard that he actively organised meetings in support of the group, despite knowing its outlawed status under Kenyan law.
Further evidence showed that he orchestrated the recruitment and radicalisation of a minor by luring them with promises of financial gain, military training, and religious reward.
He also facilitated the minor’s attempted journey to Somalia by providing logistical guidance, travel routes, and financial support.
In delivering the judgment, the court found that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt, citing credible and consistent testimony that demonstrated a pattern of ideological indoctrination, planning, and facilitation.
Senior Principal Magistrate Boaz Ombewa ordered that all sentences run concurrently.
