NAIROBI, Kenya — The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has secured a conviction against a Somali national in what prosecutors describe as a landmark anti-radicalisation case involving the recruitment of a minor into a terrorist network.
The Kahawa Law Courts found Abdikarim Hassanow Hassan, also known as Ali, guilty on multiple terrorism-related charges under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2012, following a prosecution that detailed a coordinated scheme of recruitment, indoctrination, and facilitation of extremist activities.
According to the court, the accused was an active member of Al-Shabaab, a group designated as a terrorist organisation under Kenyan law, and had organised meetings in support of its operations.
The charges stem from events on or before April 2, 2024, in Kehancha Township, Migori County, where the court found that the accused engaged in activities aimed at advancing the group’s extremist agenda.
In a significant aspect of the case, prosecutors established that the accused targeted and radicalised a minor, luring the victim with promises of financial rewards, military training, and religious incentives.
The court heard that the suspect went further to facilitate plans for the minor’s travel to Somalia to join the militant group, providing logistical support, including travel routes and financial assistance.
Led by prosecution counsel Kennedy Amwayi, the State presented evidence showing the accused played a central role in grooming the minor for terrorism-related activities.
In delivering judgment, Senior Principal Magistrate Ombewa said the prosecution had met the legal threshold of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
“I find that Prosecution established a troubling narrative of facilitation, ideological indoctrination, and preparation, and proved beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused was the author, financier, recruiter, and radicaliser as charged,” the court ruled.
The victim’s testimony was described as credible and consistent, forming a key pillar of the prosecution’s case in demonstrating a deliberate pattern of radicalisation.
The matter is scheduled for mention on April 20, when the court is expected to set a date for sentencing.
The conviction highlights Kenya’s ongoing efforts to counter violent extremism and disrupt recruitment networks, particularly those targeting vulnerable individuals such as minors.
Under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, offences related to recruitment, facilitation, and participation in terrorist activities attract severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms.
Authorities maintain that sustained prosecution and community vigilance remain critical in combating radicalisation and safeguarding national security.
