Koome noted that the division will exercise original jurisdiction over core international crimes under the International Crimes Act, 2008, and hear criminal reviews, revisions, appeals and other applications arising from decisions made by trial magistrates in cases involving organised and international crimes.

International crimes, terrorism, human trafficking, kidnapping, arms trafficking, drug trafficking, piracy and wildlife crimes will now fall under a specialised High Court division established by Chief Justice Martha Koome, which will begin operations on October 30, 2026.

The International and Organised Crimes Division, established under sections 11 and 12(3) of the High Court (Organisation and Administration) Act, 2015, will also handle appeals from subordinate courts, constitutional petitions and judicial review applications linked to offences within its jurisdiction.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by section 11 and 12 (3) of the High Court (Organisation and Administration) Act, 2015, the Chief Justice has established the International and Organised Crimes Division of the High Court, to hear cases arising from International Crimes Act (ICA), 2008, as well as appeals arising from Organised Crimes tried in the subordinate courts and whose appeals lie in the High Court, and any other cases where the Chief Justice in consultation with the Principal Judge of the High Court allocates to the Division from time to time, with effect from the October 30, 2026,” reads a Gazette Notice dated October 19, 2026.