A significant legal drama is unfolding in Nairobi, involving a businesswoman named Faith Mwikali Ndiwa, who stands accused of scamming a Nigerian investor out of Ksh 25 million. This high-stakes case has captured public attention due to the alleged use of a prominent Kenyan opposition leader’s name, Raila Odinga, in the scheme. The allegations point to a complex web of deceit, involving fraudulent contracts and false representations.
Who is Faith Mwikali Ndiwa?
Faith Mwikali Ndiwa is a businesswoman with a controversial history. Prior to this incident, she had been implicated in other questionable dealings. These past allegations paint a picture of a person familiar with navigating the grey areas of business and finance, often skirting the edges of legality.
The Alleged Scam
The core of the scam revolves around Ndiwa’s alleged use of Raila Odinga’s name to lure in her victim. She purportedly convinced the Nigerian investor, Jude Olabayo Veracruz, that she was connected to Odinga’s family through a supposed tender for supplying Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) to the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA). This false pretense was used to extract a substantial sum of money from Veracruz.
Victim: Jude Olabayo Veracruz
Jude Olabayo Veracruz, a Nigerian national and CEO of a bank, became the unwitting victim of Ndiwa’s scheme. Attracted by the promise of a lucrative return on investment, Veracruz was drawn into the scam through a series of calculated deceptions. His trust and financial acumen were exploited, leading to significant financial loss.
Companies Involved
Two companies, Ashley Dylan Limited and Faizel Limited, were central to Ndiwa’s scheme. These entities were used as vehicles to present a veneer of legitimacy to the fraudulent activities. The involvement of these companies added a layer of complexity to the scam, making it appear more credible to the unsuspecting victim.
The Fraudulent Contract
Ndiwa allegedly fabricated a framework contract, complete with an amendment, to support her claims. This document was presented as evidence of a legitimate business deal involving the supply of LLINs. The sophistication of the forged contract was such that it initially convinced Veracruz of its authenticity.
The Alleged Tender
The purported tender to supply LLINs to KEMSA was a critical element of the scam. Ndiwa claimed that this tender was linked to Raila Odinga’s son-in-law, who supposedly needed financial assistance to complete the contract. This claim leveraged the high-profile name of Odinga to add credibility and urgency to the scam.
Timeline of Events
The fraudulent activities spanned from June to December 2022. During this period, Ndiwa orchestrated various moves to convince Veracruz to part with his money. Key incidents included the presentation of the forged contract, repeated requests for funds, and the creation of a false narrative involving Odinga’s family.
Legal Proceedings
Ndiwa was arraigned before Milimani Chief Magistrate Susan Shitubi on May 27, 2024. She faced multiple charges, including forgery, falsifying contract documents, and obtaining money by false pretenses. These charges reflect the severity of the alleged crimes and the calculated nature of the scam.
Prosecution’s Case
The prosecution has built a strong case against Ndiwa, arguing against her release on bail. They presented evidence of the fraudulent contracts and the financial transactions that took place. Their primary concern is that Ndiwa poses a flight risk and could potentially interfere with the investigation if released.
Defence’s Argument
In contrast, Ndiwa’s defense argued for her release on bond, citing her constitutional right to bail. They contended that she is not a flight risk and that her continued detention was unnecessary. The defense aimed to portray Ndiwa as a businesswoman who had simply engaged in a failed business venture.
Magistrate’s Ruling
Magistrate Susan Shitubi ruled in favor of the prosecution, detaining Ndiwa in Lang’ata Prison until a bail hearing scheduled for May 28, 2024. This decision underscores the seriousness with which the court is treating the case and the potential risks associated with releasing the accused.
Role of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI)
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) played a pivotal role in uncovering Ndiwa’s scheme. Their investigation revealed the intricate details of the scam and provided the necessary evidence to support the charges. Statements from the DCI have highlighted the methodical nature of the investigation and the challenges faced in tracking Ndiwa’s activities.
Impact on the Victim
For Jude Olabayo Veracruz, the financial and emotional toll of the scam has been substantial. The loss of Ksh 25 million is a significant blow, not only financially but also in terms of trust and confidence in cross-border business dealings. This incident may also affect future investments and business relationships.
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
The case has generated significant media coverage and public interest. The use of Raila Odinga’s name in the scam has added a political dimension, attracting widespread attention. Public opinion is divided, with some expressing outrage over the alleged deceit, while others are skeptical about the involvement of high-profile names.
Also Read: Faith Mwikali Ndiwa Accused of Forging KEMSA Contract and Committing Fraud
The case of Faith Mwikali Ndiwa is a stark reminder of the potential for fraud in business dealings, especially when high-profile names are invoked to lend credibility to scams. As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen what the final outcome will be. This case also highlights the importance of due diligence and the need for robust legal frameworks to protect investors.
FAQs
What are the charges against Faith Mwikali Ndiwa? Ndiwa faces eight counts, including forgery, falsifying contract documents, and obtaining money by false pretenses.
How was the Nigerian investor deceived? Jude Olabayo Veracruz was deceived through a series of fraudulent contracts and false claims involving a high-profile tender for supplying LLINs to KEMSA, allegedly connected to Raila Odinga’s son-in-law.
What is the current status of the case? As of now, Ndiwa has been detained in Lang’ata Prison, with a bail hearing scheduled for May 28, 2024.
What role did the DCI play in the investigation? The DCI conducted a detailed investigation that uncovered the fraudulent activities and provided the evidence needed to charge Ndiwa.
What are the broader implications of this case? This case underscores the risks of financial fraud and the importance of thorough vetting in business transactions. It also highlights the need for vigilance and legal protections to prevent similar scams.
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