Kenyan lawyer Alphonce Osewe charged in multi‑million gold fraud

Advocate Alphonce Collins Osewe was arraigned in Nairobi's Milimani Chief Magistrate's Court on charges of obtaining money by false pretences and multiple offences under Kenya's Proceeds of Crime and Anti‑Money Laundering Act. Prosecutors allege he falsely claiming the ability to sell 400 kg of gold bars defrauded businessman Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi of more than Ksh61 million (approximately USD 260,400) between early May 2023. The charge sheet also states Osewe, together with co‑accused Patroba Odhiambo Tobias, handled the proceeds knowing they were illicit.

The State opposes his release on bail, citing a flight risk after Osewe failed to appear for plea‑taking despite prior police bail. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations warned the public about similar fake gold investment scams, urging vigilance as organized fraud rings target Kenyan investors.