A personal assistant to a Member of Parliament from the Coast region has landed in legal trouble after being charged with malicious damage to property and conspiracy to commit a felony over a hotly contested parcel of land in Kilifi County.
Victor Katana Mganga was arraigned before the Shanzu Chief Magistrate’s Court following a detailed investigation into his alleged role in a land-grabbing case that has sent shockwaves through Kilifi South. The charges stem from a dispute over a three-acre parcel of land, which had been lawfully subdivided into three one-acre plots by its original owner.
According to police reports, Katana is accused of orchestrating the unlawful takeover of the land and maliciously destroying a perimeter wall that had been erected by the rightful landowner to secure the property.
Investigations led by Kilifi South detectives revealed that Katana, allegedly using his influence and proximity to power, moved to claim the land without following due legal process.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) reviewed the investigation findings and granted consent for Katana to be prosecuted. During the court appearance, the accused pleaded not guilty to both counts and was ordered to remain in custody at Shimo la Tewa Prison until June 11, pending the outcome of a pre-bail report.
This case has reignited public concern over the abuse of power and growing impunity in land matters, particularly in Kenya’s coastal region, where land disputes have historically been a flashpoint.
Legal experts are now calling for greater scrutiny of public officials and their aides, insisting that political connections must not be allowed to shield individuals from the consequences of illegal land acquisitions.
