Kevin Mugambi, a former junior employee in the Kenyan Embassy's labour department in Riyadh, was reportedly arrested after transporting alcoholic drinks in his personal vehicle on behalf of two diplomats who had purchased them.
According to accounts presented by his relatives, the two diplomatic officers were allowed to purchase and consume alcohol under privileges associated with their diplomatic status, while Mugambi did not enjoy similar protection under Saudi law.
The family claims that when Saudi authorities sought clarification from the Kenyan Ambassador over the circumstances surrounding the alcohol, the ambassador declined to provide a supporting letter confirming that the drinks belonged to the diplomats.
The alleged refusal reportedly left Mugambi carrying responsibility for the alcohol, eventually resulting in his conviction and a three-year prison sentence. He is currently serving his first year behind bars in Saudi Arabia.
However, his relatives and friends now say they have gathered evidence that could establish ownership of the drinks and potentially strengthen efforts to challenge the conviction and secure his release.
Among the evidence reportedly available are purchase receipts showing that the two diplomats bought the alcohol on the day of the incident. The family also claims CCTV footage captured the purchase and subsequent handover to Mugambi.
Additionally, relatives say they possess an audio recording of a conversation in which the two diplomatic officers allegedly acknowledged to Mugambi's wife that the alcohol belonged to them, raising further questions about the circumstances of his conviction.
The family has appealed to Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'Oei to intervene, urging the government to investigate the case, establish the truth and provide diplomatic assistance to secure Mugambi's release.
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