A man accused of defrauding jobseekers of more than Sh2.5 million by promising them positions in the National Police Service has been released on bail by a Nairobi court.
James Chesimani Masengeli, also known as Timothy Khatete Barasa, appeared before Chief Magistrate Dolphina Alego on Monday to answer to a charge of obtaining money by false pretences.
The court heard that on diverse dates between 18 and 23 November 2025, Masengeli allegedly obtained Sh2,588,000 from several individuals by claiming he was able to secure seven employment slots in the National Police Service, claims the prosecution says were false.
According to the charge sheet, the alleged offences were committed at an unknown location within the country.
The prosecution told the court it had no compelling reason to oppose bail and asked for a mention on December 16, for pretrial purposes.
Masengeli’s lawyer, Shadrack Wambui, did not oppose the proposed date and appealed for lenient bail terms, arguing that the accused is a father of four and a law-abiding citizen.
He further told the court that masengeli was a victim of mistaken identity, adding that the defence would demonstrate this as the case progresses.
He also requested that the prosecution furnish the defence with all the materials it intends to rely on.
The prosecution, however, told Alego that the accused is not a serving police officer, contrary to earlier claims by the defence.
Chief Magistrate Alego granted the accused bond of Sh1 million or cash bail of Sh500,000 and directed that the matter be mentioned on December 16, 2025 for pretrial.
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