Former Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Internal Security, Dave Munya Mwangi, is facing serious charges following his involvement in a land fraud scheme that has shocked many. Mwangi, who also serves as the Director of Olbolsat Farm Limited, was arrested for the fraudulent acquisition of a 1.591Ha parcel of land located along Mombasa Road. The plot, which was forged into the names of companies owned by Mwangi, was later leased to a Chinese company for Sh12 million.
The arrest and subsequent arraignment of Mwangi followed an extensive investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Land Fraud Investigators. The investigation was triggered after a distressed victim reported the fraudulent activities, leading the DCI to probe the case thoroughly. The alleged crime involves Mwangi working alongside two accomplices, Sammy Louis Karanja and Moses Ojuka, a former employee at the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning. Together, they forged critical documents, including the land title deed, to illegally acquire the land.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), after reviewing the evidence, made the decision to charge the three with multiple offenses. These include three counts of conspiracy to defraud, uttering a false document, and forgery of a title deed. The charges reflect the severity of the crime, especially considering the involvement of high-ranking officials and government employees in a scheme to deceive and defraud the rightful land owner.
Mwangi was arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges. He was granted a bond of Sh20 million or an alternative cash bail of Sh5 million. His two accomplices, Sammy Karanja and Moses Ojuka, remain at large, with the DCI actively pursuing them. The case has raised significant concern about land fraud in Kenya, especially within the context of government corruption and the involvement of public servants in criminal activities.
Understanding the Charges: What Does “Guilty as Charged” Mean?
The charges against Mwangi and his co-accused carry serious implications, as the phrase “guilty as charged” could lead to significant legal consequences if the accused are found guilty in court. The crime of land fraud is a severe offense, and those convicted face harsh penalties under Kenyan law.
The DCI’s role in investigating these crimes is crucial, particularly in cases involving high-profile individuals like Mwangi. Their ranks in Kenya are known for their thoroughness and determination in tackling complex fraud cases. The DCI has consistently demonstrated its commitment to justice, making sure that perpetrators of land fraud are held accountable.
The victim in this case, who was likely a victim of circumstance, is expected to receive justice through the legal proceedings. As the investigation unfolds, the DCI continues to work to ensure that those responsible for such deceptive activities are brought to justice.
As the case progresses, the ODPP will closely monitor the proceedings to ensure a fair trial, and the public will undoubtedly be keen to see how this high-profile land fraud case is resolved.
