A Central African national has been charged in a Nairobi court for allegedly defrauding a businessman more than KSh 1 million in a fake tender and employment scam spanning several months.
Abdi Yunis Adan was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Dolphina Alego at the Milimani Law Courts, where he faced accusations of obtaining KSh 1,006,001 from Ali Abdi Maalim under false pretences.
According to the prosecution, Adan allegedly convinced the complainant that he could secure a lucrative street-light installation tender in Wajir County and also facilitate the employment of three individuals at Kenya Power.
Investigators told the court that Adan “knew the claims were false” but intentionally misled the victim in order to siphon money over several months.
The alleged fraud occurred between 25 October 2024 and 12 March 2025 in Nairobi County.
Adan pleaded not guilty to the charges and was freed on a KSh 500,000 bond pending trial.
How the Alleged Tender Scam Worked
Court documents describe a classic fraud pattern:
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A promise of access to government tenders
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Claims of influence within energy sector institutions
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Requests for “processing fees,” “application fees,” or “facilitation charges”
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Use of personal networks and WhatsApp communication to create trust
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Gradual escalation of financial demands
Such scams have become increasingly common in Kenya, with fraudsters using government and parastatal names—including Kenya Power, KETRACO, county procurement offices, and public works projects—to exploit desperate job seekers and investors.
Why Tender Scams Are Rising in Kenya
Analysts say tender fraud is rising due to:
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High unemployment
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Lack of public knowledge about real procurement procedures
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The proliferation of unofficial agents promising shortcuts
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Weak verification systems for tender documents
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The impersonation of officials on social media
Cases involving foreigners posing as well-connected brokers have also increased in the energy and construction sectors.
What Happens Next
The prosecution has indicated it will call several witnesses, including:
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The complainant
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Investigating officers
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Procurement experts from Wajir County
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Representatives from Kenya Power
Adan is expected back in court for the pre-trial hearing once the prosecution completes its disclosures.
If convicted, he could face:
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A heavy fine
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A lengthy jail term
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Deportation upon completion of sentence