The Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi have released two businesspeople on bail after they pleaded not guilty to charges of failing to provide legal documentation for imported goods.
Case of Mohammed Abdullahi
The first accused, Mohammed Abdullahi, was arraigned on October 2, 2025, following his arrest for allegedly failing to present order letters for imported dairy products.
According to court documents, Abdullahi was operating BRT Com Wholesalers along Eastleigh Road when he was asked to produce import documentation on October 1, 2025 but failed to do so.
Represented by his lawyer Mr. Swaka, Abdullahi maintained his innocence. His lawyer argued that he was a small-scale trader who had fully cooperated with investigators. He requested the court to grant a cash bail of Kshs. 5,000, citing his client’s limited means.
The prosecution, however, opposed the plea for leniency and urged the court to impose stricter bail conditions. After hearing both sides, the presiding magistrate ordered that Abdullahi be released on a cash bail of Kshs. 10,000 with one surety.
The magistrate also directed that the defense team be furnished with all relevant legal documents, including witness statements. The case is set for mention on October 16, 2025.
Case of Zamzam Ahmed
In a separate but similar case, Zamzam Ahmed was charged with failing to produce order letters for imported dairy products.
The charges were linked to operations at Hafla Wholesalers and Salama Wholesalers in the Eastleigh area of Starehe Sub-County on the same date, October 1, 2025.
The prosecution claimed that Ahmed was selling dairy products sourced abroad but declined to provide documentation when requested by an investigating officer.
Ahmed pleaded not guilty and was also granted release on a cash bail of Kshs. 10,000. Her matter is scheduled for hearing at Court 6 on October 16, 2025.
Legal Significance
Both cases underscore the importance of compliance with Kenya’s importation laws, particularly the requirement for businesspeople to provide order letters and supporting documents when trading in imported goods.
The rulings also highlight the judiciary’s approach of balancing fair trial rights with the need to enforce trade regulations.