The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is seeking public assistance in locating and arresting a suspected wildlife trafficker, Alfred Mbugua Gicheha, who has absconded court hearings for over a year.
Gicheha was charged on May 27, 2023, with the offence of dealing in endangered wildlife trophies and was released on a Ksh 3 million bond. However, since December 2023, he has failed to appear in court for the hearing of his case.
He was initially arrested on May 24, 2023, by detectives who seized 23 pieces of game trophies weighing approximately 110.5 kilograms, with an estimated street value of Ksh 11,050,000.
“Mbugua Gicheha who has since gone underground had been arrested on May 24, 2023, in Sipili area of Laikipia West sub-county, when detectives drawn from DCI Headquarters Serious Crime Unit intercepted a motor vehicle Reg. No. KCC 591B make Nissan Vannette driven by the suspect” the DCI said in a statement.
“All the witnesses testified and the accused was placed on his defence. However, since December 2023, he has neglectfully absconded court hearings, prompting the presiding Magistrate to issue a warrant of arrest against him” it said.
Anyone with information that may lead to his arrest is encouraged to report it to the nearest police station.
“ Do you know his whereabouts? Do you have any information that might assist in his speedy arrest? #FichuaKwaDCI Call our toll-free hotline 0800 722 203 any time to report anonymously, or report to any police station near you” the investigative agency appealed.
