Popular car dealer Joseph Kairu Wambui, widely known as Khalif Kairo, has been acquitted of fraud charges linked to high-value motor vehicle transactions after the complainants formally withdrew their cases.
Kairo had faced two counts of cheating contrary to Section 315 of the Penal Code, in relation to claims that customers paid millions for imported cars that were never delivered. He had denied the charges from the onset.
Complainants Withdraw Cases After Refunds
According to his lawyer Davidson Makau, the complainants consented to the withdrawal after receiving full refunds.
“The complainants had consented to the withdrawal after receiving the refund of their full purchase price,” Makau told the court.
In one instance, Dona Ayalo Okoth accused Kairo of inducing her to transfer KSh 2,984,998 to his company, Kai and Karo Limited, for the importation of a Subaru Outback that was never delivered.
In another case, Jeff Kyule alleged he paid KSh 2,145,150 for a Honda Vezel from Japan between July 10 and July 29, 2024, but the vehicle was also not supplied.
Court’s Ruling
At Milimani Law Courts, trial magistrate Lucas Onyina allowed the withdrawal under Section 204 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which permits complainants to withdraw cases before a final order is issued if sufficient grounds are presented.
Kairo Speaks Out
Following the ruling, Kairo expressed relief, noting that the case had taken a toll on his public image.
“I feel happy because I’m finally clearing my name. A lot of people called me many names, and my reputation was almost damaged. But I’m happy because now the public can see that there was no fraudulent intention—it was just a business misunderstanding blown out of proportion,” he said.
