An Eldoret court has ruled that Joseph Kipkoech Keino, accused of defrauding 18 job seekers, must begin repaying more than Ksh. 12 million by September 29, 2025. The victims, including university students and taxi operators, were tricked with promises of high-paying hotel jobs in Australia.
Court records reveal Keino allegedly collected between Ksh. 300,000 and Ksh. 1.8 million from each victim between March and July 2024. He convinced them that they would earn monthly salaries of Ksh. 900,000 overseas, with free food and accommodation included.
What Did the Court Decide on the Refund?
Principal Magistrate Cherono Kesse ordered Keino to pay an initial Ksh. 150,000 by the end of this month or risk losing his Ksh. 3 million bond. “Failure to comply with this order will lead to cancellation of the Ksh. 3 million bond with immediate effect,” she warned.
Keino has also been directed to return to court on October 6, when the magistrate will confirm if he has complied with the refund order.
How Did the Alleged Scam Work?
According to the charge sheet, Keino allegedly obtained money under false pretenses by promising overseas employment. He told the victims they would work as hotel service staff in Australia, luring them with inflated pay packages.
Keino first appeared in court in September 2024, where he denied the charges and was released on a Ksh. 3 million bond with a surety of the same amount.
This case now stands as a warning to young job seekers chasing opportunities abroad, while victims await justice and repayment.
By Lucky Anyanje