A Kenyan man accused of a fatal drunk-driving offence in the United States is set to be extradited to the country after the Director of Public Prosecutions secured an order from a Nairobi court. Sancho Kibutu appeared before Senior Principal Magistrate Teresia Nyangena at the Milimani Law Courts on September 25, 2026, where he surrendered to the extradition request and indicated his willingness to comply with the court’s orders. Kibutu was arrested pursuant to an extradition request by the governments of the United States of America and Kenya.
According to the extradition request, Kibutu had been on the run since October 11, 2013, after failing to comply with an order of the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Madera, requiring him to appear for sentencing on October 28, 2013. He is expected to face sentencing following his conviction for Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated, contrary to Section 191.5(a) of the California Penal Code, together with three special allegations. The DPP stated that Kibutu would be surrendered to the United States to face the consequences of his actions.
The successful extradition proceedings underscore the DPP’s continued role in facilitating international cooperation in the administration of justice and ensuring that fugitives wanted to face criminal justice proceedings are brought before the courts. On September 15, 2026, the DPP secured Kibutu’s continued detention in relation to the extradition proceedings. This move allowed the DPP to advance extradition proceedings to facilitate his return to the United States.
The court, sitting in Nairobi, declined Kibutu’s application for bond or cash bail, allowing him to remain in custody as the DPP advanced extradition proceedings. Kibutu had asked the court to release him on bond or cash bail, stating that he was willing to comply with any conditions imposed. However, the court ruled that he would remain in custody to ensure his extradition to the United States.
The DPP’s extradition application was supported by relevant documents, which were supplied to Kibutu. He had sought additional time to respond to the application, but the court ultimately ruled in favor of the DPP. The extradition proceedings were carried out in accordance with the laws of Kenya and the extradition treaty between Kenya and the United States.
The Director of Public Prosecutions has been working closely with the governments of the United States and Kenya to ensure that Kibutu faces justice for his actions. The extradition order was secured after a thorough review of the case and consideration of the relevant laws and treaties. The DPP’s office has been instrumental in facilitating international cooperation in the administration of justice.
The extradition of Sancho Kibutu marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for the victims of his actions. The DPP’s office has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that fugitives are brought to justice, regardless of their location. Kibutu’s extradition is expected to bring closure to the families of the victims and serve as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to flee the country to avoid accountability.
Key points
- The DPP secured an extradition order for Sancho Kibutu, a Kenyan fugitive wanted in the US for a fatal drunk-driving offence.
- Kibutu had been on the run since October 11, 2013, and is expected to face sentencing in the US.
- The extradition proceedings demonstrate the DPP’s role in facilitating international cooperation in the administration of justice.
