Elderly Woman Charged for Conspiring with Kamiti Convict to Steal Ksh.7.6 Million

An elderly woman, Pamela Akinyi Wara, has found herself entangled in a legal battle after being charged with conspiring with a convict from Kamiti Maximum Prison to steal over Ksh.7 million. The case, which was brought before the Milimani Law Courts, has garnered attention due to the unusual nature of the crime and the involvement of a convict already serving a life sentence for unrelated offenses.

The allegations against Akinyi are serious. According to court documents, between May 1, 2020, and September 17, 2020, Akinyi conspired with Hesbon Onyango Nyamweya, a convict at Kamiti Maximum Prison, to steal a substantial sum of Ksh.7.6 million from a businesswoman, Purity Karambu Laird. The theft, which spanned several months, involved intricate planning and coordination, with Akinyi allegedly playing a central role in the crime.

The court documents revealed that Akinyi, knowing or having reason to believe that the money was acquired through theft, dishonestly retained the Ksh.7.6 million. The charge sheet stated, “Between the 1st day of May 2020 and the 7th day of September 2020 within the Republic of Kenya, otherwise than in the course of stealing, dishonestly undertook the retention of Kshs.7,656,500/= knowing or having reason to believe the money was acquired through theft.” These charges paint a picture of a well-orchestrated scheme involving both an outsider and a convict, highlighting the lengths to which criminals will go to execute their plans.

Hesbon Onyango Nyamweya, the alleged accomplice, is no stranger to the law. Currently serving a life sentence at Kamiti Maximum Prison for being a convicted sex offender, Nyamweya’s involvement in this theft adds another layer of complexity to the case. His ability to orchestrate such a crime from within the confines of a maximum-security prison raises questions about the effectiveness of prison oversight and the potential vulnerabilities that can be exploited by inmates.

During the court proceedings, Akinyi faced three charges: stealing, handling stolen goods, and conspiracy to commit a felony, all contrary to the Penal Code. The seriousness of these charges cannot be understated, as they carry significant legal consequences, including potential imprisonment.

Despite the gravity of the accusations, Akinyi maintained her innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges. The Milimani Law Courts granted her a bond of Ksh.2 million, allowing her temporary freedom as she awaits trial. The court also set a date for her next appearance, directing her to return on September 5, 2024, for further proceedings.

This case has sparked public interest, not only because of the large sum of money involved but also due to the unusual partnership between an elderly woman and a prison inmate. The involvement of a convict already serving a life sentence in another crime raises concerns about how such a plot could be carried out from within prison walls. It also underscores the need for stricter measures to prevent incarcerated individuals from engaging in criminal activities while serving their sentences.

As the case progresses, many will be watching closely to see how the court handles the matter and what it will reveal about the criminal justice system’s ability to prevent such conspiracies. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications, particularly in terms of how prisons manage inmates and the potential reforms needed to curb criminal activities orchestrated from behind bars.

In the meantime, Purity Karambu Laird, the victim of this elaborate theft, continues to seek justice for the significant financial loss she has suffered. The court’s decisions in the coming months will determine whether those responsible for the crime will be held accountable and whether justice will be served.