A Nairobi businessman, Samuel Maina Weru, has been arraigned in court on allegations of defrauding a trader of goods worth more than Sh7.2 million in what prosecutors have described as a carefully planned business fraud.
Weru appeared before Milimani Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina, where he denied all the charges of obtaining goods by false pretence.
According to the charge sheet, Weru allegedly obtained 990 jerricans of 20-litre SomoFry cooking oil and 675 cartons of Menengai bar soap, with a combined value of Sh7,382,880, from Network Four Limited, a Nairobi-based trading company.
How the Alleged Fraud Unfolded
Prosecution records indicate that the alleged offences took place between November 26 and December 30, 2024, within Nairobi County.
Investigators claim that Weru, jointly with other individuals not before the court, pretended to be in a position to pay for the goods supplied by the company.
However, after receiving the goods, Weru allegedly failed to make payment as promised, prompting the complainant to report the matter to the police.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) approved the charges following an investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), which linked Weru to the fraudulent acquisition of the goods through false representation.
Court Appearance and Bail Terms
During the brief court session, the accused maintained his innocence and through his lawyer, asked the court for lenient bail terms, arguing that he was not a flight risk and would cooperate with investigators.
Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina granted Samuel Maina Weru bail, allowing his temporary release pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The prosecution did not oppose bail but requested the court to compel the accused to deposit his travel documents and ensure he attends all court sessions.
Network Four Limited’s Complaint
The complainant, Network Four Limited, says the fraud has had a significant financial impact on its business operations.
According to company representatives, the goods were supplied in good faith after Weru presented what appeared to be legitimate business credentials and references.
The firm later discovered that the payment commitment was fraudulent, forcing it to pursue legal redress.
“This was not a simple misunderstanding — it was a deliberate act to obtain goods under false pretence,” said a source familiar with the investigation.
Legal Implications
Under the Kenyan Penal Code, obtaining goods by false pretence is a serious criminal offence punishable by imprisonment. Legal experts note that such cases highlight growing concerns about commercial fraud and deceptive business practices in Nairobi and other urban centres.
“The Samuel Maina Weru fraud case is one of many emerging business scams targeting suppliers who operate on credit,” said a city-based lawyer. “It shows why businesses must conduct due diligence before releasing goods or services.”
A Pattern of Commercial Deceit?
Fraud investigators have reported an increase in similar cases where individuals or companies present themselves as credible buyers or distributors, only to disappear after receiving goods.
The DCI’s Economic and Commercial Crimes Unit has in recent months intensified investigations into corporate fraud and fake procurement schemes targeting traders across Kenya.
Officials warn that the trend poses a growing threat to small and medium enterprises that often lack robust verification systems.
Public Reaction and Business Lessons
The case of Samuel Maina Weru has sparked debate among traders and business associations, many calling for stronger legal deterrents and faster court processes for economic crimes.
Business advocacy groups argue that such frauds not only harm suppliers but also erode trust in Kenya’s commercial sector.
“Cases like this shake investor confidence,” said a representative from the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI). “We urge the government to tighten fraud controls and promote digital trade verification.”
What’s Next for the Case
The matter will proceed to a pre-trial hearing, after which the court will set dates for witness testimonies and evidence presentation.
If found guilty, Samuel Maina Weru could face a jail term, fines, and restitution orders to compensate the complainant.
Meanwhile, Network Four Limited is said to be pursuing a civil claim alongside the criminal proceedings to recover the value of the lost goods.