Joe Kariuki Charged In Fake Fertilizer Scam

Josiah Kariuki Kimani, Director of SBL Innovate Manufacturers LTD and Fifty-One Capital (K) Limited, was charged today for allegedly manufacturing, distributing, and selling substandard fertilizer.

Appearing before the Milimani Anti-Corruption Magistrate Celesa Okore, he was charged with 7 counts, including conspiracy to defraud, forgery, uttering false documents, applying a standardization mark to a commodity that does not comply with Kenyan standards and others.

He pleaded not guilty to all the charges. The prosecution through Robert Ogallo opposed his release on bail, citing that the accused’s life might be in danger and also taking into account the seriousness of the offenses.

It is alleged that on 12th January, 2023, at an unknown location within the Republic of Kenya, jointly with others not before court with intent to deceive Kenya Bureau of Standards Nakuru Region offices, forged an agreement, namely value-adding soil amendment and conditioner to organic fertilizer and animal supplement, purporting it to be a genuine, valid agreement signed between SBL Innovate Manufacturers Ltd. and African Diatomite Industries Limited.

Kimani was further charged with forging a standardization mark number 14617 in the name of 51 Capital, African Diatomite K Limited purporting it to be a genuine standardisation mark issued by KBS.

Principal Magistrate Hon.Celesa A. Okore will deliver her ruling tomorrow, 7th May 2024 at 9 am. The accused will remain in police custody until tomorrow.