South Sudanese businessman loses millions to domestic workers in Kenya

Two domestic managers employed by a South Sudanese entrepreneur in Nairobi have been charged with theft of close to USD300,000 in hard currency.

The duo was also charged with the handling of suspected stolen property.

Out of the colossal sum, a Senior Principal Magistrate was told by State Prosecutor that only USD30,000 was recovered by the police.

The Prosecutor told the court that Ruth Kageha Livole and Violet Engesa Aluse were arrested in Bungoma and Nairobi counties, respectively, after a seven-day search.

The suspects who were arrested on April 28 and 29 respectively and detained for interrogation were charged with stealing three gold rings, USD280,000 (Sh32.4 million) and a black bag from Atong Amos Agok Juac.

They denied stealing the money on diverse dates between April 15 and 21 at Tipuwana Apartments in the upmarket Karen estate. They allegedly committed the offence jointly with others who are yet to be apprehended.

The court heard Aluse was arrested in Riruta, Nairobi County, by Police Constable Pamela Kaari, and USD5,000 (Sh580,000) was found with her.

Kaari proceeded to Bungoma, about 450 kilometres west of Nairobi, where Livole was found with USD25,000 (Sh2.9 million).

Handling the money

The two house helps are accused of handling the money, knowing it had been stolen or irregularly obtained.

Livole was freed on a USD50,000 bond while her co-accused, Aluse was granted bond of USD20,000 .