Meru MCA charged with conning road contractor of Sh1.4 million

A Meru MCA yesterday denied obtaining Sh1.4 million from a contractor by false pretence.

Gabriel Njenjere Chokera of Mikinduri Ward in Tigania East denied obtaining the money from Joseph Kobia, a road works contractor, between September 16, 2015, and October 8, 2015.

The MCA allegedly pretended that he could help the complainant acquire the services of a bulldozer for road works in Meru County.

He appeared before Meru Chief Magistrate Lucy Ambasi after he was arrested and bonded by the police at the weekend.

Represented by lawyer David Thangicia, the accused pleaded to be released on reasonable bail terms.

But State Counsel Margaret Matheka applied to have the accused remanded in custody for a few days pending a pre-bail probation report.

Ms Matheka told the court that there were concerns of political interference and the accused may not adhere to bail conditions.

The magistrate released the MCA on a Sh2 million cash bail or Sh5 million bond.

The case will be heard on September 17.