A Mombasa-based human rights defender, Caleb Okumu Ngwena, has been charged with allegedly trafficking two children, aged 16 and 17, from Mombasa to Kiambu County for purposes of sexual exploitation. According to the prosecution, the children were transferred from Kiembeni Village in Kisauni Sub-County, Mombasa County, to Kiambu County on the night of August 25 and August 26, 2026. Ngwena appeared before the Shanzu Law Courts, where he faced two counts of trafficking in persons under Section 3(3) as read with Section 3(5) of the Counter-Trafficking in Persons Act.
The prosecution alleged that Ngwena's actions were in contravention of the Counter-Trafficking in Persons Act. In addition to the trafficking charges, Ngwena also faced a charge of defilement under Section 8(1) as read with Section 8(4) of the Sexual Offences Act. The prosecution alleged that the offence occurred in Kiambu County on August 26, 2026. Furthermore, he was charged with two counts of committing an indecent act with a child, contrary to Section 11(1) of the Sexual Offences Act.
Ngwena denied all the charges and pleaded not guilty when he appeared before the court. Through his lawyers, he asked the court to release him on reasonable bond terms. Principal Prosecution Counsel Keya Ombele and Prosecution Counsel Orina Sagini, however, asked the court to take into account the seriousness of the charges when considering the bond application. The court was required to weigh the severity of the charges against the defendant's right to freedom.
After hearing the parties, the court granted Ngwena a bond of Sh800,000 with one surety. The court also provided an alternative cash bail of Sh500,000 with one contact person. This decision allows Ngwena to be released from custody while awaiting trial. The prosecution maintains that the two children were moved from Mombasa to Kiambu for the alleged purpose of sexual exploitation.
The case will return to court on October 1, 2026, for mention. The mention will allow the court to give pre-trial directions and set dates for the hearing. This will provide an opportunity for the prosecution and defence to prepare for the trial. The court will also ensure that the case is handled in a timely and efficient manner.
Human rights defenders and child protection agencies have expressed concern over the case. They have emphasized the need for swift justice and the protection of vulnerable children from exploitation. The charges against Ngwena highlight the importance of enforcing laws against human trafficking and child exploitation in Kenya.
The alleged trafficking of children for sexual exploitation is a serious crime that requires a strong response from law enforcement agencies and the judiciary. The case against Ngwena demonstrates the efforts of Kenyan authorities to combat human trafficking and protect children from abuse. The outcome of the case will be closely watched by human rights groups and the general public.
Key points
- A Mombasa-based human rights defender has been charged with trafficking two children to Kiambu County for purposes of sexual exploitation.
- The defendant, Caleb Okumu Ngwena, has been granted a bond of Sh800,000 with one surety or an alternative cash bail of Sh500,000 with one contact person.
- The case will return to court on October 1, 2026, for mention and to set dates for the hearing.
