Human rights activist Boniface Mwangi was on Monday charged with unlawful possession of ammunition following his arrest over the weekend in Lukenya, Machakos County.
Mwangi was picked up from his home on Saturday evening by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), who linked him to the June 25 protests held in memory of victims of last year’s anti-tax demonstrations. Authorities claimed the activist was involved in “facilitating terror,” although no terrorism-related charges were formally brought against him.
According to a police report, a search conducted at Mwangi’s office known as Mageuzi Hub in Hurlingham, Nairobi led to the discovery of two unused teargas canisters and a single 7.62x51mm blank round. Investigators allege these items point to an intention to incite public unrest.
However, when the case was presented before the court, Mwangi faced only two charges: unlawful possession of ammunition and possession of noxious substances, both without a valid license or lawful authority.
The official charge sheet reads: “On 19th July 2025, at Mageuzi Hub, in Nairobi County, within the Republic of Kenya, you were found in possession of noxious substances to wit three Teargas canisters without lawful authority… and one round of a 7.62 x51mm blank ammunition without lawful authority.”
Mwangi pleaded not guilty to both counts. Presiding over the case, Principal Magistrate Gedion Kiage granted the activist a personal bond of Ksh.1 million, pending the next hearing.
His arrest and subsequent prosecution have sparked further concern over the use of criminal charges, including those previously linked to terrorism, to target demonstrators and dissenting voices in the country.
