The Mombasa Court has ordered Turkish billionaire Elsek Osman and his associate Gokmen Sandikci to be detained for 14 days pending investigations into allegations of financing terrorism.
Resident Magistrate David Odhiambo said the case touches on national security, noting that the state has presented a strong case under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA).
“It is not possible to reveal what evidence exists against the respondents. They have huge investments, and if they were to leave the country, they have much to lose,” Odhiambo said. He added that the matter should be treated with caution.
“The subject falls under POTA. For the reasons advanced, I allow the application on the following terms: the respondents shall be held for 14 days. While in custody, they shall receive medical attention and be granted access to counsel on January 27,” the magistrate ruled.
Osman, a Turkish refugee in Kenya for 20 years with investments worth Sh6 billion, was arrested on January 13 at Mtwapa following a road incident involving a vehicle ferrying a senior Kilifi County official and Wajir Governor, which reportedly hit Osman’s V8 Prado and sped off.
Through lawyers John Khaminwa and Wycliffe Ombeta, Osman denied the terrorism allegations, saying he is being framed. Khaminwa said Osman sponsors over 300 students and came to Kenya after falling out with the Turkish government.He also warned that Osman suffers from heart conditions that make detention risky.
Ombeta said Osman was arrested after questioning the vehicle carrying the governors and a Member of Parliament. He claimed Osman was assaulted and falsely accused of attacking county officials.
Senior Prosecutor Barbara Sombo said Osman and Sandikci are being investigated separately for accident and terrorism-related matters. “Being a refugee does not grant immunity from prosecution. We are investigating their financial links to terrorism,” she said.