Lilian Wangui Odwoma, also known as Lilian Weru, has been released on a Ksh.3 million cash bail after being accused of defrauding a businesswoman of Ksh.36 million.
She appeared before Magistrate Dolphina Alego on Monday and denied all the charges against her.Court records indicate that between May 6 and May 20, 2024, in Westlands, Nairobi, Wangui allegedly conspired with others, not currently before the court, to defraud Elizabeth Wanjiku Muigai of USD 50,000 and Ksh.30 million.
She is said to have falsely claimed that she could help the complainant secure a standby letter of credit from Pacific Concord International FZC in Dubai.
Besides the main fraud charge, Wangui faces two additional counts related to acquiring and using proceeds of crime. These charges suggest that she allegedly benefited from money obtained through illegal means.
During the hearing, her lawyer, John Swaka, asked the court for leniency, citing her ill health. Swaka argued that her medical condition should be considered when setting bail and determining how the case should proceed.
After hearing submissions from both sides, Magistrate Alego granted Wangui the Ksh.3 million cash bail. The case has been scheduled for mention on September 16, 2025, allowing the prosecution and defense time to prepare further evidence and arguments
.This case draws attention to the growing issue of high-value fraud in Kenya, where individuals are defrauded through schemes that promise access to international financial instruments. The use of letters of credit and promises of overseas financial transactions appears to be a tactic in such cases, often leaving victims with a financial losses.
Observers note that cases like this often involve multiple people working together, and tracing all parties can be complex, especially when some suspects are not immediately brought before the court.
The matter also highlights the importance of proper legal procedures in handling large financial disputes, ensuring that the accused receives a fair trial while protecting the rights of the complainant.
The upcoming mention in September will be critical in determining how the case progresses, and it will provide an opportunity for the court to examine evidence and witness accounts more thoroughly. Legal experts say that such cases can take months to resolve due to the financial complexities involved and the need to verify the authenticity of claims related to international transactions
.Wangui’s release on bail underscores the balance courts often seek between ensuring that suspects face justice and considering humanitarian factors such as health issues.
