By Edna-UCLIQ
The scandal involving Kenya’s First Choice Recruitment Agency has left over 1,200 victims seeking justice.
They fell prey to a fraudulent overseas job racket. Investigations by the Assets Recovery Agency (ARA) revealed a complex money laundering scheme. This alleged scheme was orchestrated by the agency’s CEO, Judy Jepchirchir, and her accomplices.
The agency reportedly misused funds from young Kenyans aspiring for jobs abroad.
These proceeds were used to purchase properties across Nairobi, Machakos, and Uasin Gishu counties. During a Senate Labour and Social Welfare Committee hearing, ARA Director Alice Mate disclosed the details.
“The recruitment agency opened over 27 bank accounts across five different banks,” she said. “These accounts handled transactions amounting to approximately Sh300 million between February 2020 and May 2023.” Most of the funds were withdrawn in cash, just below the reporting threshold, raising concerns of misconduct.
“Our preliminary investigations point to Ms. Jepchirchir and her accomplices registering their suspected criminal properties with proxies,” stated ARA’s Deputy Director, Timothy Nderitu. He added that several accounts have either zero or negligible balances despite substantial transactions.
The agency’s investigations have identified four properties linked to the suspects in Nairobi, Eldoret, and Machakos.
They also found 21 vehicles registered under their names. “We are analysing the accounts to trace the money flow,” Mate said. “This investigation points to a complex scheme.”
Jepchirchir is associated with 11 companies where she holds significant positions. The ARA has also identified seven other suspects linked to the scheme.
However, the ongoing investigations face challenges. Many receipts from victims do not bear the company’s official letterhead or stamp.
“The authority has obtained a list of 1,200 defrauded individuals,” Mate noted. “Unfortunately, most receipts lack official identification.”
The Senate committee has demanded the agency refund Sh1 billion to victims. Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua revealed that First Choice is among 25 recruitment agencies deregistered or denied registration.
“The ministry has stopped the operations of First Choice,” he stated. “Its registration certificate expired on February 18, 2023.” The ARA vowed to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure justice for victims.
“We seek 90 days to conclude the investigations,” Nderitu said. “Our goal is to preserve the assets and ensure our investigations are foolproof.”
