The trial of three individuals accused of defrauding a British national of USD 398,000 in a counterfeit tender project has been reported to be scheduled for the 29th, 30th, and 31st of October, 2024.
According to reports, Alex Stephen Ogolla, also known as Oparanya, Mofat Gicheru, alias Aden, and Eric Otieno Atanga stand accused of orchestrating a scheme that allegedly duped the victim into believing they were pre-qualified to supply laptops and other accessories to the Ministry of ICT in March 2023.
The alleged fraudsters purportedly operated under the guise of companies named Violand Investment Ltd and Battre Africa Ltd, through which they reportedly extracted approximately Ksh 60 million from the unsuspecting complainant.
The intricate plot, as per sources, involved multiple trips to the UK by the defendants armed with falsified documents.
It is reported that the victim incurred losses in the form of prequalification fees, purported purchases, facilitation charges, and handling costs.
After allegedly cutting off communication with the victim, the suspects reportedly evaded authorities until detectives from the Operation Support Unit uncovered their whereabouts in Kasarani, Athi River, and Kariobangi North.
Reportedly, upon their arraignment at the Milimani Law Courts, the trio was reportedly granted release on a Ksh 3 million bond, with one surety of equal value, and reportedly without the option of bail.
It is reported that pre-trial proceedings are reportedly set to commence Tuesday in Court No. 2 for confirmation of the documents to be relied upon by the prosecution.
Authorities are reportedly actively pursuing two additional suspects, Stephen Nadade and Joy Wangari Kamau, who are reportedly believed to have played significant roles in the fraudulent activities before reportedly absconding with a portion of the illicitly obtained funds.
