Nairobi, Kenya – August 27, 2025 — Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested businesswoman Joy Naomi Jelimo in connection with the alleged theft of goods in transit valued at over USD 112,610 (approximately KSh 18 million).
The arrest was confirmed in an application filed at the Milimani Law Courts, Nairobi, where investigators sought custodial orders to detain Jelimo pending the completion of their probe. The application, lodged under Criminal Miscellaneous Application No. E1473 of 2025, was supported by an affidavit sworn by No. 85140 Cpl. Leonard Sile of the DCI Operations Support Unit.
According to court documents, the goods — which included high-value items — were diverted and fraudulently delivered to unauthorized parties. Investigators believe Jelimo was at the center of a scheme that involved forged documents, tampered delivery notes, and fraudulent clearance procedures.
DCI officers allege that the suspect received and attempted to conceal proceeds from the diversion, with key evidence linking her to suppliers and transporters.
The State, through the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), told the court that the matter is of a serious economic nature and requires time to trace other accomplices, examine recovered documents, and analyze digital evidence seized during the arrest.
Where and When
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The alleged theft occurred in August 2025 involving goods in transit through Nairobi.
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Jelimo was arrested and presented before the Chief Magistrate’s Court at Milimani Law Courts on August 27, 2025.
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The DCI requested that she be held at the Gigiri Police Station to allow completion of investigations.
Grounds for Extended Detention
The affidavit filed by Cpl. Sile cites several reasons for seeking Jelimo’s continued detention:
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Risk of interference with witnesses if released on bond.
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The need to analyze financial records and delivery documents in her possession.
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The need to conduct forensic examination of electronic devices seized during her arrest.
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The possibility of recovering additional goods and funds connected to the alleged theft.
The prosecution argued that Jelimo’s release could jeopardize ongoing efforts to trace accomplices and secure crucial evidence.
Court’s Position
After reviewing the application, the presiding magistrate issued interim orders granting the DCI limited custodial time to continue their investigations. Jelimo’s lawyers, however, are expected to contest further detention when the matter is mentioned in court later this week.
Wider Implications
The case has already drawn attention within Nairobi’s business and logistics sector, given the scale of the alleged theft and the involvement of goods in international transit. If charges are eventually preferred, Jelimo could face counts of:
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Stealing goods in transit under Section 268 of the Penal Code.
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Forgery and uttering false documents.
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Acquisition of proceeds of crime under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act.
The DCI has also indicated that more suspects could be arrested as the investigation widens.
