John Githinji Mwangi was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment after being found guilty of trafficking narcotic drugs in Nyeri County. The conviction was delivered by Nyeri Senior Principal Magistrate Faith Munyi on Thursday.
Githinji was charged with selling 50 rolls and 1350 grams of cannabis sativa (bhang) at Lusio trading center in Kieni East sub-county on June 4, 2025. The seized drugs had an estimated street value of Sh40,500 and were not in medicinal form.
Details of the Arrest and Evidence
- On the day of the arrest, assistant chief Evans Nderitu Kiama received information about a man selling bhang at Lusio. He, along with police officers Kirera and Nyaga, arrested Githinji after he refused to stand when ordered.
- During the search, authorities recovered 50 rolls of bhang in a black polythene bag, a green paper containing approximately 1500 grams of plant material, and Sh800 in cash suspected to be proceeds from sales.
- Police Sergeant Christopher Mugambi Nyaga testified that the drugs were found on Githinji’s person, including 50 rolls concealed in his jacket.
- Government analysts confirmed the seized substances contained bhang after laboratory testing conducted in July 2025.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Five witnesses testified against Githinji, who admitted to using bhang but denied the charges initially. During a probation interview, he acknowledged involvement in drug peddling to support his basic needs.
Nyeri Central probation officer Silas Karugu recommended against a non-custodial sentence, citing Githinji’s habitual drug dealing and the negative impact of such activities on the community.
Magistrate Munyi highlighted the adverse effects of bhang on youth and the community, noting opposition to leniency due to Githinji’s conduct. She emphasized the need for a firm sentence to deter similar offenses.
Consequently, Githinji was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison starting from June 5, 2025.
