Mombasa, Kenya – A Turkish businessman, Osman Erdinc Elsek, was arraigned on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the Mombasa Law Courts, where he faced terrorism-related charges linked to the Al Shabaab militant group.
According to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Elsek appeared before Senior Resident Magistrate David Odhiambo and was charged with being a member of Harakat Al Shabaab Mujahideen, contrary to Section 24 of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2012.
Allegations Against Elsek
Court documents revealed that on January 14, 2026, Elsek allegedly recorded videos at the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) Mombasa police station using a Samsung Flip 7 phone, purportedly for use in terrorist acts.
The prosecution further stated that on January 12, 2026, at Majengo Kanamai area in Kilifi South, Kilifi County, Elsek was found in possession of a Glock pistol under suspicious circumstances, raising concerns it was intended for unlawful use.
Co-Accused Charged
Elsek’s co-accused, Gokmen Sandikci, was charged with consorting with a person in possession of a firearm, contrary to Section 89(2) of the Penal Code. Prosecutors alleged he was found in the company of Elsek, who was claimed to own the illegal pistol.
Prosecution’s Request
Led by Counsel Barbara Sombo, the prosecution appealed to the court to compel the suspects to deposit their passports until the conclusion of the case. The team also sought a pretrial date to supply witness statements and documentary evidence.
Bail Ruling
After reviewing the evidence, Magistrate Odhiambo ordered Elsek’s release on a Ksh.1 million bond with a surety of a similar amount and one Kenyan contact person. Sandikci was granted a Ksh.500,000 surety bond with an alternative cash bail of Ksh.200,000.
The court directed that the pretrial hearing will take place on February 19, 2026.
Conclusion
The arraignment of Osman Erdinc Elsek and his co-accused underscores Kenya’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and illegal firearms possession. As the case proceeds, attention will focus on the evidence presented and the broader implications for security in the coastal region.
