Key Suspect Arraigned in Mombasa for Shocking Blogger Assault Case Involving Abduction, Torture, and Gang Rape

Key Suspect Omar Ali Mohamed Arraigned in Shanzu for Abduction, Torture, and Gang Rape in Shocking Case of Blogger Assault

By Reuben Muisonik, Political Editor, The Dispatch Digital

In an unfolding saga that’s shaken Mombasa, Omar Ali Mohamed, aka “Nyanya,” faced multiple charges in Shanzu Law Courts yesterday. Omar, linked to several violent incidents, was formally charged with abduction, gang rape, conspiracy, and torture. His arrest has unveiled a network of brutality allegedly sanctioned under the guise of enforcing local bylaws.

The Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had been hunting for Omar in connection with another case dating back to August. On August 15, victims reported to Mikindani Police Station that they’d been tortured and assaulted by Omar and associates posing as county enforcers. This cruelty led Mombasa Law Courts to issue an order for Omar’s appearance, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges under the Prevention of Torture Act.

The court granted Omar bail at Ksh500,000 or Ksh200,000 cash, though he remains in custody pending a critical ruling in another case involving prominent blogger Bruce Khajira, expected on November 15. Prosecutors have argued he poses a flight risk.

Manhunt for Perpetrators in the Shocking Assault of Blogger Bruce Khajira

Omar Ali was apprehended at the Lunga Lunga border, attempting to flee to Tanzania. His alleged involvement in the abduction and brutal assault of Bruce John Khajira, known as “Chawa-001,” has put him at the centre of a heinous criminal investigation. The DCI’s Digital Forensics Lab placed Omar Ali at two key locations in the incident, coordinating closely with others through forensic evidence.

Authorities identified a grey Nissan Note (KDQ 394C), hired by Omar, which was used to transport Khajira to a remote site where he was subjected to unspeakable abuse before being abandoned in Mwakirunge. Investigators have detained the car, and accomplices are being actively pursued.

More Arrests Made as Police Close In

As of September 23, four additional suspects—Abdul Hassan Athman, Esther Muthoni, Violet Adera, and Haji Babu Ndau Mohamed, a boda boda operator—were also arrested. Athman allegedly supplied a motorcycle used in the crime, while others assisted with transportation. The gang is accused of deceiving Khajira, claiming they were taking him to meet the Governor to apologise for an alleged online post.

After the gang’s attack, Khajira was found unconscious in a sack. Following a distressing denial of medical care at Coast General and Referral Hospital, he was eventually treated at Beyond Scope Hospital, Kisauni.

Ongoing Investigations and High-Level Summons

The Shanzu Law Court will reconvene on September 26 to rule on the suspects’ bail applications. Meanwhile, DCI has summoned high-ranking Mombasa County Government officials suspected of having ties to the criminal activities. Authorities are committed to bringing everyone connected to justice, no matter their rank or influence.

This chilling case serves as a reminder that law enforcement, guided by unyielding commitment, will pursue justice relentlessly in the face of abuse of power and exploitation.