Prominent second-hand vehicle dealer Joseph Kairu Wambui, widely known as Khalif Kairo, was arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts on Wednesday over allegations of obtaining Ksh 3,045,000 under false pretenses.
Kairo, the owner of Kai and Karo Limited, is accused of defrauding Dan Odhiambo Odundo by falsely claiming that he could import a Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4 line from Japan. The alleged fraud took place between October 5 and October 7, 2024, at Westlands Business Park, Nairobi County.
According to the charge sheet, Kairo misled the complainant, convincing him to make the payment, but failed to deliver the vehicle as promised. Following investigations, Kairo was arrested on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, and presented in court the following day.
He pleaded not guilty to the charge of cheating under Section 315 of the Penal Code, denying any wrongdoing and insisting that he had not misrepresented his ability to import the vehicle.
The prosecution has lined up several witnesses to testify against him, including Simon Otieno Odhiambo, Albert Hesbon Odundo, and police officer Wako Jarso.
Kairo remains in police custody as the court considers his bond terms. The case has drawn significant attention, given his reputation in the automobile industry, with many closely watching how the proceedings unfold.
The development comes barely a day after Khalif Kairo was rearrested shortly after attending a court session at Milimani Law Courts where he was expected to answer charges of receiving money in false pretence.
But on social media and to be specific X, Khalif Kairo has displayed a picture of a young, rich and energetic man who is being fought by cartels in the car business. He even claimed that he trusts God will help him win the war against his enemies who he believes are better because he is making it.