By Bramuel Wanzala
A man accused of orchestrating a series of sophisticated cyber-attacks that allegedly led to losses of nearly Ksh 52 million has been charged before a Magistrate’s Court.
Albert Komen Kipkechem appeared in court following his arrest on March 2, 2026, where he denied all charges related to computer misuse and cybercrime.
According to the prosecution, Kipkechem is linked to coordinated cyber intrusions targeting several financial institutions, including Eclectics International. Court documents indicate that the attacks resulted in losses estimated at approximately Ksh 52 Million.
He faces charges of contravening Sections 15(1) and 26(1)(b) of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, which relate to unauthorized access to computer systems with intent to commit further offences.
The State strongly opposed his release on bail, filing an affidavit that described him as a flight risk and a potential threat to ongoing investigations. Investigating officer Andrew Ngowa from the Economic and Commercial Crimes Unit told the court that the accused was found in possession of eight different National Identity Cards at the time of his arrest. All the IDs reportedly bore his photograph but carried different names and nationalities.
The prosecution further claimed that Kipkechem was in possession of a Democratic Republic of Congo passport, raising concerns that he could abscond if released.
In opposing bail, the State also expressed apprehension over the suspect’s alleged technical capabilities. Prosecutors argued that if granted access to telecommunication devices, he could remotely access, encrypt, or delete critical digital evidence necessary for the case.
The court ordered that Kipkechem be detained at Capitol Hill Police Station pending the conclusion of investigations.
