Shadrack Nyakoe
Nairobi — Tim Orao Shikalo, alias Vincent Olowa Wanton, has been charged in court over a Sh38 million gold scam involving a foreign investor.
Appearing before Magistrate Benmark Ekhubi, Shikalo denied charges of conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money by false pretenses. The court was told that between February 1 and August 2, 2024, in Nairobi, he conspired with others not before the court to defraud Asianic Limited of USD 265,200 (approximately KSh 38 million) by falsely claiming he could sell 580 kilograms of gold.
In reality, investigations revealed the “gold” was fake—made of copper, zinc, and tin, with no trace of any precious metal. The scam was supported by forged documents, fake contracts, and false promises of secure delivery and legal guarantees.
Shikalo’s arrest is the latest in an ongoing crackdown on a well-organized gold fraud syndicate. Detectives believe he played a key role in planning and executing the elaborate con, which targeted international investors with fraudulent contracts and fictitious assurances.
This case follows the December 7, 2024 arrest of Steve Okoth Odek, also known as David Beth, who is facing related charges in connection to the same scheme.
Two other suspects are currently under investigation, with police stating they are key figures in the criminal network.
Shikalo remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Patmoz
