High Court to Decide on 14-Day Detention of Three Kenyans Wanted in US Cybercrime Case

The High Court in Nairobi is set to rule on whether three Kenyan nationals wanted in the United States for alleged cybercrime offenses can be held in custody for up to 14 days pending extradition proceedings.

The trio, identified as Brian Njoroge, Samuel Kamau, and another individual whose name has not been publicly disclosed, were arrested in Nairobi in late 2025 following a request from US authorities. They face charges related to a sophisticated cybercrime scheme that allegedly targeted financial institutions and individuals in the United States, involving unauthorized access to computer systems, fraud, and money laundering.

The US government submitted a formal extradition request through diplomatic channels, supported by evidence including digital records, financial transaction trails, and witness statements. Kenyan authorities, acting on the request, apprehended the suspects and brought them before the court to determine the legality of their detention.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) applied for a 14-day remand period to allow sufficient time for the preparation of extradition documents, verification of evidence, and compliance with legal requirements under the Extradition (Commonwealth Countries) Act and the Extradition (Foreign States) Act. The DPP argued that the suspects pose a flight risk given the gravity of the charges and the international nature of the case.

Defense lawyers opposed the application, contending that the prosecution had not provided sufficient grounds to justify extended detention. They argued that their clients should be released on reasonable bail terms, asserting that the charges remain allegations and that prolonged custody without formal extradition proceedings could violate their constitutional rights to liberty and fair administrative action.

The presiding magistrate heard submissions from both sides on January 14, 2026, and reserved the ruling. The court is expected to deliver its decision on whether the suspects can be detained for the requested 14 days or if they should be released on bail or bond pending further steps in the extradition process.

If the court grants the 14-day detention, the prosecution will use the period to finalize extradition paperwork, including authentication of charges, evidence bundles, and assurances of fair trial guarantees as required under Kenyan and international law. The US authorities have assured Kenya that the suspects will receive a fair trial if extradited.

The case has drawn attention due to the growing number of cross-border cybercrime investigations involving Kenyans. Kenya has cooperated with the United States in similar matters in recent years, leading to several successful extraditions of individuals accused of online fraud, hacking, and financial crimes targeting US victims.

This matter is being heard under the Extradition Act, which requires the court to satisfy itself that the offense is extraditable, that the evidence meets the threshold for committal, and that the surrender would not contravene fundamental rights. The suspects remain in custody pending the court's ruling.

The decision will have implications for future extradition requests and the handling of cybercrime suspects in Kenya, balancing international cooperation with constitutional protections. The court is expected to deliver its ruling within the coming days.