"Migori James Bond" ordered to pay 500K or face 18 month jail term

In a bizarre and dangerous stunt that has captured national attention, Stephen Odhiambo Obise, now widely dubbed the “Migori James Bond,” has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after hanging onto a helicopter during musician Prince Indah’s traditional wedding ceremony in Migori County.

The incident took place on April 13, 2025, in Rapogi village, where crowds had gathered to witness the star-studded ceremony. As a helicopter prepared to depart for Nairobi, Obise was seen clinging onto its skid. The pilot, upon realizing the danger, was forced to make an emergency landing in a nearby farm to ensure Obise’s safety.

Obise fled the scene but was arrested later that evening. In court, he pleaded guilty to endangering the safety of the aircraft and its passengers. The magistrate sentenced him to 18 months behind bars or an alternative fine of KSh 500,000.

This isn’t the first time Kenya has witnessed such a risky spectacle. The case has drawn comparisons to a similar incident in 2016, when Saleh Wanjala from Bungoma hung onto a helicopter and survived. Wanjala was charged and later released on bail.

Authorities continue to stress the dangers and legal consequences of such reckless behavior, urging the public to respect aviation safety laws.