Meru ‘James Bond’ out on bail
Julius Mwithalii, who clung onto Cord leader Raila Odinga's helicopter, in a court in Maua, Meru, on February 3, 2017. He was released on a Sh20,000 bond. PHOTO | PHOEBE OKALL | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- Mr Mwithalii, 28, appeared before Senior Resident Magistrate Anthony Munene in Maua.
- The lawyers also argued that Mr Mwithalii is the sole breadwinner and his family will suffer if he remains in custody.
The man who clung on Cord leader Raila Odinga’s chopper as it took off in Meru has been released on bond.
Julius Mwithalii was on Friday granted a Sh20,000 bond with a surety of the same amount or cash bail of Sh20, 000.
Mr Mwithalii, 28, appeared before Senior Resident Magistrate Anthony Munene in Maua.
The court had ordered a mental check-up for the accused after his lawyers applied for his release on bond.
His lawyers, Kiogora Mugambi and Hosea Mutembei, told the court their client will not abscond.
The defence lawyers had earlier pleaded with the court to grant him a personal bond, but the State counsel opposed the application, saying the offence committed was serious.
The lawyers also argued that Mr Mwithalii is the sole breadwinner and his family will suffer if he remains in custody.
Mr Mwithalii was charged with attempted suicide after he hung onto a helicopter carrying Mr Odinga when it took off in Meru on January 26.
The case will be mentioned on July 6.
