Editor's Review

Abikar had been convicted earlier in connection with the  2015 Garissa University attack.

Three terror suspects who escaped from the Kamiti Maximum Prison have been slapped with an additional 15-year sentence.

The Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) confirmed that on Friday, August 28, Principal Magistrate Gideon Kiage determined that the three intended to avoid recapture and remain together after their escape, prejudicing national security.

Kiage sentenced Mohamed Ali Abikar and Joseph Juma Odhiambo to 15 years in prison upon the completion of their current sentences. However, Musharaf Abdala's case was different despite receiving a similar sentence.

"Principal Magistrate Gideon Kiage sentenced them to serve 15 years’ imprisonment each upon completion of their existing sentences, except Abdala, whose term was ordered to run from the date of his acquittal by the High Court," the statement read in part.

The three had been charged with committing a terrorist act contrary to Section 4(1) of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA).

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A file photo of terror suspects Mohamed Ali Abikar, Joseph Juma Odhiambo and Musharaf Abdala in court.

According to the Principal Magistrate, the suspects' working together after their escape raised more questions on their plan.

"If their only intention was to flee and evade re-capture, it would have made more sense to split up and go in different directions. This would have reduced their chances of detection,” the court ruled.

Abikar had been convicted earlier in connection with the  2015 Garissa University attack, where 148 Kenyans lost their lives. He was serving a 41-year sentence.

On the other hand, Odhiambo was serving a 15-year prison sentence after he was convicted in Mandera of offences relating to travelling to a terrorist-designated country.

He was also found guilty of failing to report his departure and leaving Kenya through a non-designated border point.

Abdalla, who will only serve the fresh sentence, had been acquitted by the High Court, which overturned his 22-year sentence.

Speaking during the police recruits' graduation at Kiganjo, President William Ruto acknowledged the changing nature of crime, including terrorism.

He stated that emerging threats require the police and other security agencies to develop stronger capabilities and improve cooperation