By Peter John
A man who appeared before a Thika court has denied accusations that he stole a Tecno mobile phone and cash from a woman he claims was his girlfriend, insisting the matter is a result of a relationship dispute rather than a criminal act.
Nicholas, who was arraigned before Thika Chief Magistrate Stella Atambo, is accused of stealing a Tecno phone valued at Ksh 32,000 and cash amounting to KSh 25,650 on November 3, 2025.
The complainant reported the items missing, leading to his arrest and subsequent court appearance.
He told the court that the complainant had been his partner and that the belongings in question were taken during a period of emotional conflict between the two.
He described the case as a “fallout from a love affair gone sour,” arguing that the accusations were driven by personal differences rather than criminal intent.
After considering submissions from both sides, Chief Magistrate Atambo released him on a cash bail of Ksh 30,000.
In a rare moment of counsel, the magistrate encouraged Nicholas to reach out to his estranged partner to attempt an amicable resolution, noting that some disputes were better handled outside the criminal justice system when possible.
The case is scheduled for hearing on 2, March, 2026, where the court will review evidence and determine whether the disagreement was indeed a domestic misunderstanding or a case of theft as alleged.
