By Kelly Were | Nairobi, 28 May 2025
A Nairobi woman has been arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts over allegations of fraudulently receiving and withholding over KES 2.3 million that was mistakenly transferred into her bank account.
Vivian Stella Wanjiku, a Kenyan national, appeared before the court on Tuesday, 28th May 2025, to answer to charges of stealing contrary to Section 268(1) as read with Section 275 of the Penal Code.
The charges stem from an incident that occurred on 30th October 2024, in which Platinum Credit Limited allegedly transferred KES 2,317,926 into Wanjiku’s NCBA Bank accounts erroneously.
According to the prosecution led by Elsie Gakii Gitonga, Wanjiku failed to report or return the funds, instead retaining and using the money despite knowing it did not belong to her. The funds were allegedly deposited into her two NCBA accounts.
In an alternative count, Wanjiku is also facing charges of handling stolen goods, contrary to Section 322(1)(2) of the Penal Code.
The prosecution claims she knew, or had reason to believe, that the money in her possession was obtained unlawfully.
While in court today the accused pleaded not guilty to both charges and is expected to return to court on the 18 June 2025 for pre-trial directions
The accused was apprehended on 27th May 2025 and was released on bond worth 800,000 kenya shillings and a bail worth 500,000 kenya shillings with surety of 2 persons.
The matter is being handled by the Banking Fraud Investigations Unit based at KICC Police Station in Nairobi.
Key witnesses lined up for the case include lead investigator Elsie Gakii Gitonga, Junior George, and others yet to be disclosed by the State
