The Environment and Land Court has issued a warrant of arrest against Habanos Lounge director Maurice Asira after finding him in contempt of court for flouting noise pollution orders.
In a ruling delivered virtually on August 28, 2025, Justice C.G. Mbogo said Asira who manages Taks & M Habanos Chill & Grill Limited must appear in court on October 22 to explain why he should not be jailed or fined for disobeying judicial orders.
The case arose from complaints by residents led by Mary Ann Wariithi, chairperson of the petitioner group, who accused the entertainment spot of persistently blasting music above permissible levels despite a restraining order issued on October 17, 2024.
Evidence tabled in court, including expert noise-level tests and affidavits from residents, showed the lounge consistently exceeded the maximum 35 decibels allowed at night. Residents further accused the management of impunity, claiming they ignored both county enforcement officers and court directives.
Justice Mbogo stressed that judicial authority must be respected, warning that continued disobedience of court orders would attract severe consequences.
“The 1st respondent is in total disobedience of this court’s orders and undermines the authority of the court. Such conduct will be dealt with firmly to prevent future defiance,” he ruled.
Although the judge stopped short of immediately imposing penalties, he directed that Asira be produced in court to face possible jail time or fines.
The ruling comes amid Nairobi County’s intensified crackdown on noisy establishments in residential neighborhoods, with more residents increasingly seeking relief through the courts to curb nightlife disturbances.
