By TONY MUSISI
Two university students facing 32 criminal counts relating to child pornography, computer misuse and cybercrime involving minors aged between two and seven years have been released on a bond of Sh500,000 each.
However, Eldoret Principal Magistrate Kimani Mukabi rejected their request for an alternative, reasonable cash bail, citing the nature and seriousness of the offences they are facing.
In his ruling, the magistrate directed Laban Kibet Kemboi, alias Biran, and Hillary Kiplagat Komen, both students at Meru University, to each deposit a Sh500,000 bond with one surety to secure their release pending trial.
“The accused persons shall be released on a bond of Sh500,000 each with one surety pending the fixing of a date for the hearing of their case,” ruled Mukabi.
The two, who were pursuing degree courses in data science, were arrested on October 9, 2026, by officers attached to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Protection Unit at Blue House premises in Meru County.
They face several charges, including child pornography contrary to Section 24(1)(c) of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, No. 5 of 2018, as well as offences under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act.
The prosecution alleges that the offences were committed on diverse dates between January 1, 2025, and October 9, 2026, within the Republic of Kenya.
According to the charge sheet, the two unlawfully used and interfered with electronic accounts and records by registering and operating cryptocurrency exchange and mobile money accounts using identity card details and telephone numbers belonging to third parties, identified as Vibian Jebaibai and Brian Kiprop Kimaiyo.
Kemboi is separately charged with acquiring cash amounting to more than Sh1.2 million, allegedly knowing that the money was proceeds from the illegal sale and distribution of child pornography.
The charge sheet states that the offence was committed on diverse dates between January 1, 2025, and October 9, 2026, at an unknown location in Kenya, jointly with others who have not been brought before the court.
Komen is also separately charged with intentionally offering for sale images and video footage depicting child pornography through a digital network.
The prosecution alleges that he used a telecommunication device, identified in the charge sheet as Model X6728B, to distribute the material.
Both students have denied the charges.
The court heard that police officers raided the premises following a tip-off from members of the public and allegedly found the suspects engaged in a sexual act while recording it.
During the operation, which was led by Police Sergeant Irene Oduor, officers recovered various digital devices, electronic equipment and other items believed to be connected to the alleged offences.
The prosecution further told the court that intelligence reports indicated the suspects were operating a highly mobile network without a permanent base of operations.
The recovered items are expected to undergo forensic examination at the National Forensic Laboratory, with the resulting report to be presented in court during the trial.
While granting bond, Magistrate Mukabi warned the accused against interfering with prosecution witnesses, cautioning that any such conduct would amount to a breach of their bond conditions.
The matter will be mentioned on November 24, 2026.
