A man named Zakariya Kamal Sufi Abashiekh, who was charged with illegally shipping military equipment and explosives to the Al Shabaab terror group in Somalia, has been released on a Ksh.1 million bond.
He is accused of purchasing military equipment from China on behalf of Al Shabaab. He then shipped the consignment in three containers to Mogadishu. While one container was recovered, the whereabouts of the other two remain unknown.
Zakariya spent over a month in police custody while investigators probed his involvement in the shipment of military equipment to Somalia.
The case, presided over by Senior Shanzu Principal Magistrate Yusuf Shikanda, involves several charges under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. Other charges include belonging to a terrorist group and providing property for the commission of terrorist acts.
Zakariya was arrested in April at the Mama Ngina Water Front on suspicion of purchasing and shipping military equipment and explosives to Somalia for Al Shabaab.
An affidavit from the investigating officer, Corporal Gideon Wambua, states that Zakariya bought a variety of equipment that was shipped to Mogadishu.
The shipment, originating from China where Zakariya is believed to have attended school, consisted of three containers. One container was intercepted at the port of entry, disguised as regular goods.
Upon closer inspection, it was found to contain military equipment such as drones, rifle scopes, materials for making military uniforms, canvas for tents, solar panels, walkie-talkies, and camouflage suits. The shipment also included night vision goggles, voice recording pens, spy watches, spy glasses, swimming goggles, flashlights, batteries, and military-grade helmets.
Investigations are ongoing regarding Zakariya’s activities, particularly in light of evidence suggesting that he provided logistical support to Al Shabaab in Somalia between April and May 2023.
Detectives are examining his phone records, M-Pesa transactions, and bank records to uncover further information about his alleged support for Al Shabaab and the location of the other two containers he is believed to have shipped to Somalia.
The case has drawn public interest especially since Al Shabaab group seems to have increased its terror activities in recent months.
