Dutch national accused of drug trafficking, assault remanded for 14 days in Diani
Horst is being investigated for four offences: trafficking in narcotic drugs, malicious damage to property, assault causing actual bodily harm, and creating disturbance.
A Dutch national accused of drug trafficking and assault will remain in custody for 14 days as police continue investigations into multiple offences allegedly committed in Diani, Kwale County.
Elwin Ter Horst was presented before the Kwale Law court on Wednesday, where investigators requested more time to complete inquiries into the matter. The court granted the request, directing that the suspect be remanded.
More To Read
- Dutch national arrested in Diani, faces deportation after assault, spitting on police officer
- Outrage after viral video shows Dutch national insulting police officer in Diani
- Kenya to publicly destroy Sh8.2 billion meth seized in maritime operation after suspects are charged - Murkomen
- Lamu-bound bus intercepted in Malindi as police seize cannabis haul
- Kenyan national, three others indicted in US for allegedly arming Mexican drug cartel
- Italian national, accomplice arrested after police uncover cannabis farm, lab in Kwale County
According to an affidavit filed by Corporal Ezekiel Juma of Diani Police Station, Ter Horst is being investigated for four offences: trafficking in narcotic drugs, malicious damage to property, assault causing actual bodily harm, and creating disturbance.
The offences were reported under Occurrence Book numbers 32, 33, and 69 of October 28, 2025, with police indicating that the suspect was arrested shortly after the incidents.
In his sworn statement, Cpl Juma told the court that more time was needed to verify the authenticity of the suspect’s travel and identification documents through the Immigration Department.
He further stated that preliminary findings suggested the accused may be linked to a wider drug trafficking network operating in the region.
“The suspect cannot be detained at the police station pending investigations since he is considered dangerous and a flight risk,” Juma said in his affidavit, adding that the matter had sparked public concern over the suspect’s alleged conduct and his altercation with officers.
The application, filed under section 4(a) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, also cited violations under the Penal Code, including sections 339(1), 251, and 95(1)(b).
A video circulating online allegedly showing the foreign national confronting police officers has drawn sharp reactions from human rights groups.
Human rights activist Walid Sketty of Vocal Africa criticised the manner in which officers handled the situation, saying it reflected a double standard in law enforcement.
“From the video, we are really disappointed by the conduct of our police officers, who could not restrain the man for disrespecting a police officer. Had it been a Kenyan, we would have seen that person being dealt with. We condemn the act, but our officers must also show the same restraint towards Kenyans,” said Sketty.
Ter Horst has since apologised for his behaviour, saying he had been struggling with psychosis and needed access to his medication at the time of the incident.
The case will be mentioned again on November 13 to allow police to finalise investigations before charges are formally filed.
Top Stories Today
