Kangema Principal Probation Officer Julius Irungu Njogu has been granted bail of Sh400,000 cash or Sh800,000 bond after denying bribery allegations in Milimani Anti-Corruption Court.
Njogu faces charges of soliciting Sh170,000 from a businessman to influence a court sentence, an offence under the Anti-Bribery Act. The prosecution alleges the money was requested on behalf of Senior Principal Magistrate Martin Kinyua Mutegi to secure a favorable outcome in a criminal case at Kangema Chief Magistrate’s Court.
During the hearing on July 28, 2026, Njogu pleaded not guilty to the bribery charge. The court released him on bail pending further proceedings.
Magistrate Summoned After Missing Court Appearance
Senior Principal Magistrate Mutegi, the co-accused, failed to appear in court for plea-taking. The court subsequently issued a summons requiring his presence on July 30, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. Mutegi's lawyer cited ill health as the reason for his absence.
Mutegi faces charges of receiving a bribe, also under the Anti-Bribery Act. Following his arrest, Chief Justice Martha Koome suspended him from judicial duties as disciplinary processes continue.
Background of the Case
- The charges stem from an investigation by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) after a businessman reported that Njogu demanded Sh170,000 to influence his sentencing.
- An EACC operation in Kangema town led to the arrest of Njogu and Mutegi while allegedly receiving Sh150,000 from the complainant.
- The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) approved bribery charges against both officers after reviewing the investigation file.
The court proceedings will continue as the accused prepare their defence in the ongoing corruption case.
