Eldoret, Kenya – A 37-year-old businesswoman has been arraigned in court over allegations of orchestrating an overseas job scam worth more than Ksh. 13 million.
Lenah Jelagat Too, who runs a recruitment company in Eldoret City, appeared before Senior Principal Magistrate Kesse Cheronoh on charges of obtaining money by false pretence, contrary to Section 313 of the Penal Code. She denied the charges.
Alleged Scam
According to prosecutors, Ms Too collected amounts ranging between Ksh. 300,000 and Ksh. 3.8 million from job seekers, promising them lucrative employment opportunities abroad. Victims were assured of positions in nursing, caregiving, security, and hotel housekeeping, with salaries ranging between Ksh. 150,000 and Ksh. 500,000 per month.
Investigations revealed that payments were made through a bank account and an M-Pesa line registered under her family name. To build trust, she allegedly told clients that employers would provide free meals and accommodation.
Court Proceedings
The magistrate ordered Ms Too’s release on a bond of Ksh. 1 million or cash bail of Ksh. 400,000. Her lawyer argued for lenient bail terms, claiming she intends to begin refunding the victims.
The prosecution stated that she faces multiple counts of obtaining money by false pretence, with losses running into millions of shillings.
Arrest and Mediation Proposal
Ms Too was arrested by DCI detectives in Kapsabet town, Nandi County, on December 23, 2025, before being transferred to Eldoret Central Police Station in Uasin Gishu County.
In court, she expressed willingness to enter into a mediation process with victims, pledging to refund their money rather than proceed to a full trial.
“I am hopeful my clients will be paid before the case is heard and determined,” she told the court.
Next Steps
The matter has been scheduled for further direction on February 9, 2026. Meanwhile, victims remain anxious about recovering their hard-earned money, with authorities urging caution against fraudulent recruitment schemes.
Conclusion
The Eldoret case highlights the growing menace of overseas job scams targeting desperate job seekers. As investigations continue, the court will determine whether mediation or trial will resolve the matter, while victims await justice and restitution.
