A Chinese businessman wanted in Uganda over an alleged financial scandal involving billions of shillings will continue being held in Kenya as the court considers his application for bond.
Chen Guang, also known as Alex, was taken into custody on August 11, 2026, after landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport from Harare, Zimbabwe.
His arrest followed a request from Ugandan authorities seeking his extradition to Uganda, where he is expected to face criminal charges arising from alleged dealings at Diamond Steel Uganda Limited.
According to the extradition proceedings, Uganda wants Chen to answer 30 charges of forgery under Sections 319 and 324 of the Ugandan Penal Code, as well as an alleged theft offence involving about 4.5 billion Ugandan shillings.
The prosecution has urged the Kenyan court not to release him on bond, arguing that allowing him out of custody could make it difficult to secure his attendance as the extradition case progresses.
The State told the court that Chen has no significant connections to Kenya that would guarantee his continued presence in the country. Prosecutors also pointed out that he had previously lived in Uganda, where the alleged offences are being investigated.
The prosecution further relied on Chen’s travel history, saying records from his passport demonstrate that he has travelled extensively between different countries.
The State argued that his international movements, coupled with the absence of demonstrated local ties, create concerns that he could leave Kenya if granted freedom.
Prosecutors also noted that Chen had not presented an affidavit setting out his connections to Kenya or explaining what would ensure that he returns to court whenever required.
The seriousness of the allegations was another factor cited by the State in opposing his release.
The prosecution maintained that the alleged theft of billions of Ugandan shillings and the multiple forgery accusations make the case particularly serious and warrant continued detention while Uganda’s extradition request is being dealt with.
The State consequently asked the court to decline Chen’s bond application and retain him in custody until the extradition proceedings are concluded.
Chen’s detention does not amount to a finding of guilt. The Kenyan proceedings are focused on the extradition request and whether he should be surrendered to Ugandan authorities to face the charges there.
The court is expected to rule on whether Chen will be released on bond as the extradition proceedings continue.
