Human trafficking suspects’ plea for bail yet to be heard

By ALI ABDI

Hope of a New Zealand national charged with trafficking two underage girls for alleged sexual exploitation to be released on bail was dashed yesterday.

An application for bail by Baha Ukes and his Kenyan co-accused Moses Learamu could not be heard as the court was not sitting.

The two were remanded, for the third time in about two weeks, at Isiolo GK Prison and Isiolo Police Station respectively until November 27.

They first appeared before Resident Magistrate Gitau Mundia on November 6 and two days later before acting Principal Magistrate Joan Irura, where both declined to release them on bail and ruled that they be remanded.

Yesterday, a medical report was produced showing Learamu was over 18 years.

The prosecution said it would make an application to have him transferred to prison remand from the police station where he was being held as he was perceived to be a minor.

On November 8, the prosecution led by Jalasson Makori said Learamu had no identity card, no physical address and his age could not be determined.

The lawyer for the two, Kiogora Mugambi, yesterday asked the court to give Uke time to access his money that would help in financing his case among other needs.