The High Court has ruled that police cannot enter or trespass on the Muthaiga home of politician and businessman Jimi Wanjigi while reviewing an application filed by his wife, Irene Nzisa Wanjigi.
The ruling, issued by Justice Joe Omido, also bars acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli and any officers under his command from confiscating or destroying any property belonging to the Wanjigis until the case is resolved.
Ms. Wanjigi, alongside her children, filed the court application following a raid on their home on August 8, where they allege the police caused extensive damage and seized several valuables. In her affidavit, Ms. Wanjigi described how officers forced their way into the Muthaiga Road residence, breaking the gate, smashing doors and windows, and destroying the property’s security systems.
“The police damaged CCTV cameras, lighting, music automation, and related equipment,” said Ms. Wanjigi. She added that during the raid, the officers confiscated mobile phones, six laptops, iPads, and other devices. Additionally, luxury items, including Cartier hoop love earrings, rings, and studs worth KES 3.6 million, along with $400 (KES 51,600) in cash and old cut diamond earrings valued at $16,609 (KES 2.14 million), were taken.
Ms. Wanjigi highlighted that this was not the first time her family home had been targeted, citing similar police raids in 2017 and 2022. She expressed concern over what she described as a state vendetta linked to her husband’s political activism. “The repeated raids on our home and the assault of our family have nothing to do with Jimi Wanjigi’s political activities. We are law-abiding citizens and expect to enjoy our home in peace,” she stated.
Justice Omido issued an order prohibiting any further assaults or damage to the Wanjigi family’s property. Ms. Wanjigi has been directed to serve court papers to Mr. Masengeli and the Director of Criminal Investigations, Mohamed Amin, before the case is heard on September 24.
