Case against MRC leader’s wife dropped

The criminal charges against Mombasa Republican Council chairman Omar Mwamnuadzi’s wife have been withdrawn.

Mrs Maimuna Khamis Mwavyombo had been charged alongside her husband and six other people with being members of an unlawful society.

They were also accused of holding an illegal meeting, which police claimed was for planning violence.

During yesterday’s hearing, prosecuting counsel Nicholas Gitonga told Senior Principal Magistrate Richard Odenyo that the state had no case against Mrs Mwavyombo, who was absent.

“The eighth accused person is not present in court since the case facing her has been withdrawn,” said Mr Gitonga.

Mr Gitonga further said the State was ready to return the mobile phones and other personal belongings that were taken from the suspects during their arrest late last year.

“The investigation officer has indicated that they are not going to use them and ready to return them to the accused persons,” he said.

He said the suspects would be required to collect the items from Diani Police Station.  

Mr Odenyo directed the prosecution to ensure the items are procedurally returned to their owners on Friday.

Mr Mwamnuadzi and his wife were charged alongside Mr Juma Hamis, Mr Juma Omar Mwazuzu, Mr Shaban Omar Mwachapwi, Mr Ali Omar Mlaula, Mr Jumamosi Issa Goga and Mr Meshack Mwachimbi. They allegedly committed the offences on December 29 last year at Kombani, Waa Location in Kwale County.

Mr Mwamunuadzi was further separately charged with being in possession of bhang valued at Sh300.

They denied the charges and were each released on a Sh500,000 bond and a surety of similar amount. The case will be mentioned on May 28.