Nairobi — A Kenyan man wanted in the United States over a fatal drunk driving case has been arrested in Nairobi after allegedly spending more than 12 years evading authorities.
Sancho Kibutu was arrested in Runda on September 9, 2026, before being presented before Principal Magistrate Teresia Nyangena at the Milimani Law Courts, where the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) commenced extradition proceedings against him.
US authorities allege that Kibutu was convicted in California of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
He was reportedly scheduled to appear before a US court for sentencing on October 28, 2013, but prosecutors allege that he fled to Kenya instead and remained in the country until his arrest.
Court denies bail
Kibutu asked the Kenyan court to release him on bail, offering to surrender his passport and comply with any conditions imposed by the court.
The prosecution opposed the application, arguing that his alleged failure to appear for sentencing in the United States demonstrated that he posed a flight risk.
The court declined to grant bail and ordered Kibutu to remain in custody at Gigiri Police Station as the extradition proceedings continue.
The case is expected to determine whether the legal requirements for his extradition to the United States have been met.
Kibutu will return to court on September 15, 2026, for further directions on the extradition proceedings.
