By Andrew Kariuki
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has opposed the release on bond of three Kenyan nationals facing extradition to the United States over alleged cyber fraud offences.
Appearing before the court, prosecutors argued that the three suspects are fugitives wanted by U.S. authorities and warned that releasing them on bond could undermine the ongoing extradition process.
According to the prosecution, the suspects are the subject of an extradition request submitted by the United States through INTERPOL, seeking their surrender to face charges related to alleged cybercrime activities.
The ODPP told the court that granting them bail would pose a significant flight risk and could interfere with the proceedings aimed at facilitating their extradition.
Prosecutors urged the court to keep the suspects in custody until the extradition application is heard and determined, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in combating cybercrime.
However, the defence strongly opposed the position, with lawyer Danstan Omari urging the court to consider the current global security situation before allowing the extradition of the three Kenyans.
In his submissions, Omari asked the court to take judicial notice of the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, arguing that the conflict could pose serious risks to individuals extradited to the U.S. at this time.
According to the defence, sending the suspects to the United States amid the current hostilities could expose them to grave danger due to ongoing security threats linked to the conflict.
Omari cited reports indicating that tensions have intensified into a wider confrontation involving U.S. and allied strikes on Iran, followed by Iranian retaliatory missile and drone attacks on American military bases and regional targets.
The conflict, which began in late February 2026, has reportedly resulted in casualties and increased instability in parts of the region.
The court is expected to consider submissions from both sides before making a determination on the suspects’ bond application and the extradition proceedings.
