In a brazen scheme preying on the vulnerable, fraudsters impersonating court officials at the Busia Law Courts have been systematically defrauding residents of millions of shillings. The alarming scam has prompted a stern public warning from Busia High Court Judge William Musyoka.
The judge revealed the sophisticated operation during the Court Users Week, explaining that the con artists position themselves as intermediaries. They specifically target individuals navigating the legal system, falsely promising to help file legal documents or magically fast-track their cases for a fee.
“These fake brokers pretend to assist, yet they have no link whatsoever to the judiciary,” Judge Musyoka stated, his frustration palpable. He emphasized that the court’s official processes do not involve such backdoor facilitators and urged the public to conduct all business directly with accredited court staff.
The scam capitalizes on the anxiety and desperation often felt by those seeking justice, turning the hallowed grounds of a law court into a hunting ground for thieves. Judge Musyoka assured residents that the judiciary is now working actively to crack down on the racket. “We are ready to arrest and charge these fraudsters,” he declared, calling for heightened public vigilance and immediate reporting of any suspicious individuals offering “special services” for cash.
His warning echoes the painful experiences of many in the community. Richard Walekhwa, a local resident who supported the judge’s statement, confirmed the devastating impact. “Many people have lost large sums of money to these conmen,” Walekhwa said, highlighting a deep-seated problem that has eroded public trust. Victims are often left not only financially poorer but also disillusioned with the very institution meant to protect them.
The incident sheds light on the persistent challenge of “brokerage” corruption within public service spheres in Kenya, where vulnerable citizens are tricked into paying for services that should be free and straightforward. The Busia judiciary’s public alert is a crucial step towards demystifying court processes and empowering citizens to sidestep these predatory tactics.
Authorities are advising anyone with business at the Busia Law Courts to verify the credentials of anyone offering assistance and to make payments only at official bank accounts or designated cash offices, never to individuals.
