Former Spy Chief’s Estate Cautions Public Against Illegal Land Deal
The administrators of the late James Kanyotu’s estate have sounded an urgent warning to Kenyans regarding a fraudulent scheme involving the attempted sale of Kangaita Coffee Estate, a multi-million-shilling property at the center of a protracted succession dispute.
According to the administrators, acting through their advocates A.M. Wahome & Company, unauthorized individuals are falsely presenting themselves as sellers of the estate’s prime property, despite clear High Court injunctions barring any transactions.
Property Details and Court Dispute
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Land Parcel: L.R. No. 11261/76
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Registered Under: Kangaita Coffee Estate Limited
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Ownership: The late James Kanyotu held 4,995 out of 5,000 shares, controlling 99.9% of the company.
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Legal Dispute: Distribution of these shares remains under litigation in Succession Cause No. 1239 of 2008, which is still pending in the High Court.
Since the ownership of the company’s shares is unresolved, no one has the legal authority to dispose of or transact with the estate’s land.
Court Orders Blocking the Sale
The High Court has issued binding injunctions:
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September 20, 2009: Initial court order barring transfer or sale of the property.
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November 20, 2013: A second order reaffirming the freeze.
Despite these rulings, fraudsters are reportedly contacting unsuspecting buyers and advertising the property for sale.
Legal Consequences of Fraudulent Transactions
The administrators warn that any attempted sale is void ab initio — meaning it is null and void from the outset.
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A buyer would not acquire legal ownership.
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Any money paid would likely be lost.
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Participants could face serious legal consequences for contempt of court or involvement in fraudulent dealings.
Public Advisory
The advocates urge members of the public to:
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Exercise extreme caution before engaging in any land transactions involving Kangaita Coffee Estate.
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Verify property ownership at the government lands registry.
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Confirm the case status with the High Court under Succession Cause No. 1239 of 2008.
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Report any suspicious approaches to relevant authorities.
Until the court delivers its final ruling, the administrators stress that no transfer, sale, or dealing with Kangaita Coffee Estate is valid.