In a grim tale of deception and broken trust, a Kenyan businesswoman is battling to reclaim her financial footing after being allegedly swindled out of nearly Sh9 million in a fraudulent Moroccan Argan oil trade.

Purity Kendi, an entrepreneur in Kenya's vibrant travel and tours sector, reportedly fell prey to a smooth-talking Nigerian national who masqueraded as a seasoned farmer and exporter.

Identified as Chinedu Mishark Ogbuechi, the suspect is accused of luring Kendi into a bogus international oil trade scam, with the promise of lucrative returns through the import and export of Moroccan Argan oil between Morocco, Kenya, and the United Kingdom.

Court proceedings before Senior Principal Magistrate Paul Rotich have seen Ogbuechi face an array of charges, including conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money by false pretences. Court documents reveal that the alleged offences occurred between February 13, 2024, and January 15, 2025.

According to the detailed charge sheet, Ogbuechi reportedly convinced Kendi that he had the capacity to facilitate the lucrative trade. Trusting his assurances, Kendi initially handed over Sh950,000 to cover supposed consignment storage fees and document renewal costs.

This was merely the beginning of what turned into a relentless demand for more cash.

As the scam unfolded, Ogbuechi allegedly manipulated Kendi into parting with even greater sums. At one point, he purportedly solicited a further Sh3 million, claiming it was needed to export the oil to the UK.

When Kendi struggled to meet the new demands, she allegedly transferred Sh600,000 to the suspect, a payment that seemingly provoked further greed.

In a further twist, Ogbuechi reportedly persuaded Kendi to loan him an additional Sh4.9 million, ostensibly to pay Moroccan farmers for the harvested oil.

In a shocking escalation, the accused then claimed to have been kidnapped and demanded a ransom. Desperate, Kendi sent an extra Sh827,000.

The scam reportedly came to an abrupt halt when, after receiving the money, Ogbuechi allegedly severed all communication, leaving Kendi in the dark and realising she had been duped. Her subsequent complaint to authorities led to his arrest.

Ogbuechi has since pleaded not guilty to the charges. His case will return to court on May 9, 2025, when a pre-bail report will be presented.