Two men have been sentenced to long prison terms for their involvement in the January 15, 2019, terror attack at the Dusit D2 Hotel Complex in Nairobi, which left 21 people dead and many others severely injured. The Kahawa Anti-Terror Court handed down the sentences on Thursday, bringing closure to one of the most devastating terrorist incidents in recent Kenyan history.
Mohamed Abdi Ali, a 61-year-old madrassa teacher, was sentenced to 30 years in prison after being convicted on 14 counts of facilitating a terrorist act under Section 9A of the Prevention of Terrorism Act. Each of the 14 charges earned him a 15-year sentence, but they will run concurrently. In addition, he received another 15-year sentence for conspiracy to commit a terrorist offence under Section 23(2), as read with Section 23(4) of the same Act.
Also sentenced was Hussein Mohamed Abdille Ali, a 22-year-old who was convicted of conspiracy to commit an offence and facilitation of a terrorist act. He received 15 years for each offence, and unlike his co-accused, his sentences will run consecutively meaning he will serve a total of 30 years in prison.
Both men were found to have played key roles in supporting the attackers who stormed the Dusit D2 Hotel Complex on that tragic day, executing a meticulously coordinated assault that targeted civilians, including international visitors and business professionals. The attack resulted in the deaths of 21 individuals and left numerous others with life-altering injuries and psychological trauma.
Lady Justice Diana Kavedza, who delivered the sentencing, noted that the court was fully convinced that the prosecution had proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt. She emphasized the severity of the crimes and the long-term suffering inflicted upon the victims and their families.
During the proceedings, the Director of Public Prosecutions painted a grim picture of the aftermath of the attack, describing how vibrant professionals lost their lives and how survivors continue to struggle with the psychological scars of that day. The court heard harrowing details of families torn apart, businesses disrupted, and an entire nation left in shock.
The sentencing marks a significant moment in Kenya’s fight against terrorism, sending a clear message about the consequences of aiding and abetting acts of terror. Authorities have expressed their commitment to ensuring justice for victims of terrorism and enhancing national security by prosecuting those involved in such heinous crimes.
The verdict also highlights the persistent threat posed by radicalization networks and underscores the critical role of both intelligence and judicial systems in dismantling terrorist cells and preventing future attacks.
