In a recent ruling that underscores the judiciary’s commitment to curbing corruption and fraud, an Eldoret court has handed down sentences to three individuals found guilty of defrauding local athletes of approximately Ksh. 800,000. The three, Thomas Kipyatich Kiptoo, Amos Mutai, and Samuel Rono, were sentenced by Eldoret Chief Magistrate Dennis Mikoyan on charges of impersonation and fraud.
The court’s decision followed a detailed investigation into the activities of the accused, who were found guilty of falsely presenting themselves as employees of the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK). Their fraudulent activities spanned from September 2021 to June 2022, during which they deceived athletes into believing they could resolve their anti-doping issues in exchange for money.
According to the charge sheet, the trio’s scheme involved deceiving athletes Paul Kipchumba Lonyangata and Purity Jebichii Changwony. The charges were rooted in Section 382 of the Penal Code, which addresses impersonation.
Impersonation and Fraudulent Claims
Thomas Kipyatich Kiptoo, also known as Ali Thamer Kamal and Thomas Kiprotich, faced multiple charges, including a significant count of obtaining money by false pretenses. Kiptoo was accused of soliciting Ksh. 546,700 from Lonyangata, whom he promised to help with terminating an anti-doping case. The case in question was linked to Lonyangata’s suspension by ADAK on February 12, 2022. The fraudulent transactions occurred between October 3 and October 31, 2021.
In addition to Kiptoo’s charges, Amos Mutai, who was reportedly working with him, was found to have received Ksh. 30,000 from Lonyangata on October 23, 2021. Samuel Rono, the third accused, was implicated in the broader scheme, which involved obtaining a total of Ksh. 776,700 from the athletes. This amount was collected between September 2021 and June 2022.
Furthermore, Kiptoo and others not present in court were charged with deceiving athlete Purity Jebichii Changwony. They allegedly obtained Ksh. 200,000 from Changwony by falsely promising to assist her in terminating her anti-doping rule violation charges. This fraudulent activity reportedly took place between September 20, 2021, and June 2, 2022.
Court Sentences
Upon being found guilty, the three accused were each sentenced to a fine of Ksh. 30,000 or, in default, to serve one year in prison. Eldoret Chief Magistrate Dennis Mikoyan emphasized the gravity of the offenses and the need for deterrent measures against such fraudulent activities, especially those targeting vulnerable individuals such as athletes.
This case highlights a significant issue within the sports and anti-doping community, revealing how individuals exploit the complexities and stresses of anti-doping regulations for personal gain. The verdict serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and integrity within all sectors, particularly those involving regulatory bodies and their stakeholders.
In response to the court’s ruling, ADAK has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding athletes and ensuring that such fraudulent practices are swiftly addressed. The agency continues to encourage anyone with information about similar activities to report them to the authorities, ensuring that justice is served and athletes are protected from exploitation.
As the legal proceedings conclude, this case sets a precedent for how the justice system addresses cases of fraud within the sports sector and underscores the ongoing need for transparency and accountability in the enforcement of anti-doping regulations.
