A Nairobi-based laboratory technician, Stephen Hiuhu Ngigi, has been charged with forging a comprehensive insurance certificate in a case that underscores rising concerns about fake motor insurance documents in Kenya.
Ngigi appeared before Milimani Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina, where he pleaded not guilty to charges of forgery and intent to defraud.
Forgery of AMACO Insurance Certificate
According to the prosecution, on an unknown date and at an undisclosed location, Ngigi forged a comprehensive insurance certificate for a motor vehicle registration number KDB 014T.
The court heard that the accused purported the document to be a genuine certificate issued by Africa Merchant Assurance Company Limited (AMACO), knowing it to be false.
The prosecution stated that the forgery was intended to mislead authorities and possibly evade lawful insurance verification procedures.
Court Proceedings and Bail
Ngigi denied the charges when presented before Chief Magistrate Onyina. The court granted him a cash bail of Sh50,000, pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The magistrate directed that the accused be supplied with all prosecution documents to facilitate the defense’s preparation for trial.
Rising Cases of Insurance Fraud
The case comes amid a surge in insurance forgery cases across Kenya, with several motorists found using fake digital insurance stickers and certificates to avoid paying premiums.
The Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) and law enforcement agencies have warned the public against using unverified or counterfeit insurance covers, saying such documents invalidate accident claims and expose vehicle owners to legal penalties.
Experts say that digitization of motor insurance verification systems by firms like AMACO, CIC, and Britam is helping detect such fraud cases more efficiently.
Next Mention and Legal Implications
The court will mention the case in the coming weeks to confirm pretrial directions. If found guilty, Ngigi faces charges under the Penal Code on forgery and uttering false documents, which carry severe penalties, including imprisonment.
Forgery of insurance documents is treated as a serious economic offense, as it undermines public trust and the integrity of Kenya’s financial systems.