The Environment and Land Court has issued a warrant of arrest against Habanos Lounge director Maurice Asira after finding him in contempt of court for flouting noise pollution orders.
Justice Charles Mbogo, who delivered the ruling virtually on Thursday, August 28, said Asira’s actions amounted to defiance of the court’s authority.
Mbogo stressed that the disobedience was serious and that the court would not allow its orders to be undermined, warning that firm action was necessary to prevent similar defiance in the future.
"The 1st respondent is in total disobedience of this court’s orders and undermines the authority of the court. Such conduct will be dealt with firmly to prevent future defiance," the ruling read.
As such, Mbogo directed that Asira be arrested and brought before the court to face consequences for contempt.
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"I find merit in the notice of motion dated 7th April, 2025, and I therefore direct that Mr. Maurice Asira the Director Manager of Taks & M Habanos Chill & Grill Limited, the 1st respondent be arrested and arraigned in court on 22nd October, 2025 and show cause why he should not be committed to prison or otherwise penalized for contempt of court. I make no orders as to costs," the ruling further read.
Notably, the arrest warrant comes months after the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) ordered the immediate closure of the popular night club.
In a statement on Wednesday, April 16, NEMA said it ordered the closure following persistent noise pollution complaints from area residents.
The agency cited the club’s repeated failure to comply with prior directives aimed at reducing noise levels despite several warnings and engagements.
"NEMA yesterday issued a Closure Order to Habanos Lounge, located along Northern Bypass, following persistent noise complaints from neighbors and failure by the club to adhere to previous orders to control noise pollution. The orders are to take effect immediately," NEMA said in its statement.
