The Kahawa Law Courts in Nairobi will on April 7, 2026 consider a pre-bail report in the case of Joseph Mokua Amenya, who is accused of duping a businessman out of KSh 16 million in a fake United Nations vehicle leasing deal.
Court documents allege that between March 10, 2024 and December 14, 2024, Amenya, together with others not yet before court, lured Josephat Matundura Bwochora into what was presented as a lucrative business venture involving leasing motor vehicles to the United Nations.
The prosecution says the scheme was carried out through emails, phone calls and mobile money transactions, with the complainant persuaded to send large sums of money electronically as part of the supposed investment.
Amenya now faces several charges including obtaining money by false pretences contrary to Section 313 of the Penal Code, acquisition of proceeds of crime under Section 4(a) read together with Section 16(1) of the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2009, and conspiracy to defraud contrary to Section 317 of the Penal Code.
The complaint was filed by Danstan Omari and Associates Advocates on behalf of Bwochora after the matter was reported to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations on December 24, 2024. According to the lawyers, the accused convinced their client that he was participating in a legitimate United Nations-linked business opportunity, leading him to transfer the money.
Investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ Serious Crime Unit indicate that the funds were allegedly received through multiple channels including M-Pesa and bank transfers. Detectives say part of the money has already been traced to accounts linked to the accused, with further financial trails still under investigation.
In an affidavit filed in court, investigating officer Chief Inspector Stephen Oduor opposed the release of the accused on bail, citing the risk of absconding and possible interference with evidence. He told the court that the large amount of money involved and the serious penalties attached to the charges could create a strong incentive for the accused to evade court proceedings if released. Investigators also warned that the accused could interfere with electronic and documentary evidence, noting that he has knowledge of the financial channels and accounts allegedly used in the fraud.
The officer proposed that if the court considers granting bail, strict conditions should be imposed including a substantial bond reflecting the KSh 16 million involved, surrender of passports and travel documents, and measures to ensure the accused does not interfere with witnesses or ongoing investigations.
The court is expected to revisit the matter on April 7 to consider the pre-bail report and determine whether Amenya should be released on bond as the case proceeds.
