Man in Viral Video Chasing Police with Panga Arraigned in Nakuru Court
In one of the charges, Mriti is accused of unlawfully possessing an offensive weapon — the panga — in a public place without valid justification.
Paul Mriti, seen in a viral video chasing police with a panga during Nakuru protests, appears in court facing multiple charges including obstruction and unlawful possession of a weapon. Photo/Daily Nation.
By Janet Philip
The man seen in a viral video chasing police officers with a panga during demonstrations in Nakuru last Wednesday has been arraigned in court.
Paul Mriti, also known as Hassan Mti Mkavu, appeared before Principal Magistrate Kipkurui Kibelion facing four charges, including obstructing law enforcement officers, creating a public disturbance, participating in an illegal protest, and possession of a weapon in public.
According to the prosecution, on June 11, 2021, Mriti was involved in a violent incident in London Estate, Nakuru West Sub-County, where he allegedly used abusive language and aggressively confronted officers Charles Francis and Corporal Kambo while armed with a panga.
The confrontation reportedly hindered the officers from performing their duties and caused public alarm.
In one of the charges, Mriti is accused of unlawfully possessing an offensive weapon — the panga — in a public place without valid justification.
He is also charged with participating in an illegal public gathering with others who have yet to be identified or prosecuted.
The panga used in the incident was presented in court as an exhibit. Mriti was found guilty on June 12, a day after violent protests erupted in London Estate following the fatal police shooting of a local resident.
Mriti pleaded not guilty to all charges. Magistrate Kibelion released him on a bond of Sh100,000 with a surety of the same amount, or an alternative cash bail of Sh50,000. The case is set for mention on July 1.
About Author
