By Neville Oduor
Six men appeared before the Makadara Law Courts and were charged with orchestrating a sophisticated fraud scheme that saw them allegedly defraud Hassan Adam Yarow of Ksh. 3,429,776.72.
According to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the accused, identified as Fredrick Maina Wairimu, Peter Wandera Ouma, Hanington Kui Walubengo, Peter Kariuki Mathii, Isaac Mugo Kanini, and David Nganga Macharia, faced multiple charges, including conspiracy to defraud, robbery with violence, money laundering and engaging in organized criminal activity.
“The group conspired to siphon funds from Yarow’s Equity Bank and Absa Bank accounts,” the ODPP revealed.
“On April 10, 2025, along Karioko Pangani Road, Peter Kariuki Mathii and Isaac Mugo Kanini allegedly attacked Yarow, stealing his iPhone 16 Pro Max valued at Ksh. 178,000 while armed with a metal rod and a sharp knife,” the prosecution cited.
The court also heard that the group laundered the stolen money through accounts at National Bank and Consolidated Bank in Thika, attempting to obscure the funds’ origins.
Further evidence presented by the prosecution painted a picture of a well-organized criminal network.
On May 2, 2025, in Ruiru town, Kiambu County, authorities found Peter Kariuki in possession of 79 SIM cards, forged U.S. dollars, stolen phones, and two national Ids belonging to others.
“Isaac Mugo had 28 SIM cards, six Ids, and a forged embassy stamp, while David Nganga was caught with 22 SIM cards, four Ids, and 108 counterfeit U.S. bills items believed to be used for identity theft and fraud,”the prosecution added.
All six pleaded not guilty before Principal Magistrate Hon. Gilbert O. Shikwe.
The prosecution, led by Principal Prosecution Counsel Mr. Erick Mururu, opposed their release on bail, citing their involvement in an organized crime syndicate and the risk of them absconding or continuing criminal activities.
The court has scheduled a ruling on the bail application for May 26, 2025, as the case continues to unfold, highlighting the growing challenge of financial crimes in Kenya.