The legal team representing activist Boniface Mwangi has dismissed claims by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) that the outspoken human rights defender was found in possession of ammunition and tear gas canisters during his arrest and subsequent office search.
Speaking outside Pangani Police Station on Sunday, advocate Njanja Maina said the allegations were part of a deliberate attempt to frame Mwangi, who was arrested on Saturday, July 19, in connection with alleged facilitation of terrorist activities during the June 25 protests.
“We have seen a statement by the DCI claiming that certain items were recovered from Boniface’s office. We categorically state that he did not possess those items,” Maina said. “We question the motive behind pursuing terrorism charges based on fabricated evidence.”
Legal Team Challenges Legitimacy of Search
According to Maina, Mwangi was arrested at around 4:00 p.m. on Saturday at his home in Lukenya, Machakos County. He was then escorted to his office at Mageuzi Hub, located on Rose Avenue in Hurlingham, where authorities conducted a search under an ex parte court order.
However, the legal team has accused law enforcement of overstepping the limits of that court order.
“The search warrant was specifically issued for his office. Despite this, officers proceeded to search his residence, which was not included in the warrant. No arrest warrant accompanied that search,” Maina added.
Holding Charge and Continued Cooperation
Mwangi is currently in custody at Pangani Police Station, where he remains under a holding charge as police continue their investigations.
His legal team has confirmed that he is in good health and has been cooperating fully with authorities.
Background of the Arrest
Mwangi’s arrest came days after law enforcement agencies began targeting individuals suspected of supporting or facilitating unlawful activities during the June 25, 2025, anti-Finance Bill protests.
The DCI earlier claimed that during searches at his office, they recovered:
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A 7.62mm blank round
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Two tear gas canisters
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Multiple electronic devices and documents
Mwangi’s legal team insists that these items were planted in a bid to criminalize his activism and silence dissent.
As public interest in the case grows, human rights organizations and civil society groups have begun calling for transparency, due process, and respect for constitutional rights in the handling of the matter.
