Jane Achieng Eshiwani Okumu appeared before Magistrate Lucas Onyina following her arrest and was charged with conspiracy to commit a felony, stealing by servant, and making a document without authority.
The case is being prosecuted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
Former financial controller accused of theft
According to the charge sheet, the alleged offences occurred between May 15, 2018, and August 25, 2021, at Sheffield Steels Systems Limited premises off Mombasa Road, Nairobi.
The prosecution alleges that Okumu, who served as the company’s Financial Controller, was involved in a scheme that resulted in the loss of Ksh.146,519,431.75 belonging to the steel company.
The accused is alleged to have used her position within the company to access and misappropriate funds entrusted to her through her employment.
Prosecution alleges conspiracy to steal funds
The first charge against Okumu is conspiracy to commit a felony contrary to Section 393 of the Penal Code.
The prosecution claims that she acted together with other individuals who have not been presented before court to plan the alleged theft.
The charge states that the intended property was Ksh.146,519,431.75 belonging to Sheffield Steels Systems Limited.
Former employee faces stealing by servant charge
Okumu also faces a charge of stealing by servant under Section 281 of the Penal Code.
The prosecution alleges that she stole the funds while serving as the company’s Financial Controller, a position that involved handling financial responsibilities.
The charge states that the money came into her possession because of her employment relationship with the company.
Court hears forgery-related allegation
The former employee also faces a charge of making a document without authority.
The prosecution alleges that on March 5, 2021, she prepared a letter without lawful authority and presented it as a document made on behalf of Sheffield Steels Systems Managing Director Dr. Suresh Kanotra.
According to the charge sheet, the document was allegedly created with the intention of deceiving others.
Company director listed as prosecution witness
Dr. Suresh Kanotra, the Managing Director of Sheffield Steels Systems Limited, is listed as the complainant in the case.
He is also expected to be the first prosecution witness as the matter progresses.
The prosecution is expected to present additional witnesses and evidence during the hearing.
Case to proceed in court
The accused will now face the court process as prosecutors seek to prove the allegations.
Like all accused persons, Okumu remains innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.
