Mary Waithira Gikonyo appeared before Kibera Principal Magistrate Agnetta Ogonda, where she denied the charges.
The Businesswoman charged with theft case involves allegations of stealing valuable items belonging to Eric Munene and damaging property at his residence in Hardy, Lang’ata, Nairobi.
Theft allegations before Kibera court
The prosecution told the court that the alleged offence happened on March 22, 2025, along Kumbe Road in Hardy, Lang’ata Sub-County.
According to the charge sheet, Waithira acted together with other individuals who have not appeared before the court.
The prosecution accused her of stealing several items valued at KSh 933,500.
The items listed in court include a Casino gold watch, an iPhone 14, a Samsung video camera, three HP laptops, two PlayStation consoles, and two wall clocks.
The property belonged to Eric Munene, according to the prosecution.
Malicious damage to property charge
Waithira also faces a second charge of malicious damage to property.
The prosecution alleges that she and others damaged the main gate, doors to the house, window panes, and CCTV cameras at Munene’s residence.
The damaged items had an estimated value of KSh 325,000.
Defence seeks lenient bail terms
Through her lawyer John Swaka, Waithira asked the court to grant her lenient bail terms.
The defence told the court that she was not a flight risk and would comply with any conditions issued by the court.
“Your honour, I pray for lenient terms considering that the accused is not a flight risk and she is willing to comply with terms set by this court,” Swaka submitted.
The lawyer also informed the court that the matter arose from a matrimonial dispute between Waithira and her former husband.
Prosecution opposes bail request
State prosecutor Ismail Jama asked the court to deny the accused bail.
Jama argued that investigators were still tracing the alleged stolen items and that releasing Waithira could interfere with investigations.
He told the court that although Article 49 of the Constitution grants accused persons the right to bail, courts can deny bail where compelling reasons exist.
The prosecution asked the court to impose reasonable conditions if it decided to grant bail.
Court grants KSh 50,000 cash bail
After considering arguments from both sides, Magistrate Agnetta Ogonda ruled that bail remains a constitutional right unless valid reasons justify denial.
The court granted Waithira cash bail of KSh 50,000 and ordered her to provide one contact person.
The magistrate also directed her not to contact the investigating officer directly.
Any communication with the officer must happen through her lawyer.
Case to continue
The court scheduled the matter for mention on November 27, 2025, for pre-trial and further directions.
The case will continue as investigations into the alleged theft and property damage proceed.
