A Nairobi court has been told how a man allegedly posed as Head of Public Service Felix Koskei to solicit a bribe. Prosecutors say the impersonation targeted a senior government engineer and involved demands running into millions of shillings.
The accused appeared before the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court and denied all charges leveled against him. Senior Principal Magistrate C A Okore recorded a plea of not guilty and set the matter for pretrial directions.
According to the charge sheet, the suspect faces three separate criminal counts linked to impersonation and bribery. Prosecutors anchored the charges on provisions within the Penal Code and the Anti-Bribery Act.
The court heard that the alleged scheme unfolded over two consecutive days within Nairobi County. Investigators claim the accused deliberately misrepresented his identity to gain trust and exert influence.
State prosecutors said the suspect introduced himself as Felix Koskei, the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service. They argued the false identity aimed to intimidate and manipulate the targeted government engineer.
The alleged victim holds a senior engineering position within a government agency overseeing rural road infrastructure. Prosecutors stated the accused promised to protect the engineer’s regional director position in exchange for money.
The sum demanded reportedly stood at Sh10 million, which investigators described as an unlawful financial advantage. The prosecution argued the demand amounted to bribery since the accused lacked any lawful authority.
Court records indicate that the accused allegedly made the demand on January 14, 2026. Investigators further alleged he followed up the request with additional communication the following day.
On January 15, prosecutors say the accused received Sh30,000 from the engineer. They argued the payment formed part of the larger bribery demand and demonstrated intent.
The prosecution insisted the accused acted as a private individual throughout the alleged transaction. They stressed that he had no legal or official mandate to influence public service appointments.
During the hearing, Principal Prosecution Counsel Willy Momanyi sought strict bond conditions against the accused.
He argued that lenient terms could interfere with investigations and the integrity of the trial process.
The prosecution requested the court to compel the accused to provide a contact surety. They also asked for the surrender of his passport and any other travel documents.
State counsel further urged the court to restrict the accused from leaving its jurisdiction without permission. They said such measures would ensure the accused remains available for trial proceedings.
Prosecutors also applied for two weeks to supply the defense with all documentary exhibits.
They said investigators were still compiling witness statements and forensic evidence.
The state opposed the release of two mobile phones seized from the accused during arrest. They argued the devices contain crucial evidence linked to the alleged impersonation and bribery scheme.
Magistrate Okore considered arguments from both the prosecution and defense regarding the seized devices. She ruled that investigators had provided sufficient justification to retain the mobile phones as exhibits.
The court then delivered its ruling on bond and bail terms for the accused. Justice Okore granted release on a bond of Sh1 million or a cash bail of Sh300,000.
The magistrate ordered the accused to surrender his passport and all travel documents immediately. She also directed him to seek court approval before any travel outside the court’s jurisdiction.
In addition, the court instructed the prosecution to share all evidence with the defense within fourteen days. The order aimed to facilitate fair trial preparation and avoid unnecessary procedural delays.
The case was scheduled for mention on February 2, 2026, to confirm compliance with pretrial requirements. The court will also issue further directions on hearing dates during that appearance.
Legal experts note that impersonating a public official constitutes a serious criminal offence in Kenya.
They say the law treats such acts harshly due to their potential to undermine public trust.
Section 105(b) of the Penal Code criminalizes false representation as a public service employee. The provision covers misuse of names, titles, or authority associated with public offices.
The law targets individuals who assume official character to influence actions or decisions. Courts interpret the section broadly to protect the integrity of public administration.
Where impersonation intersects with bribery, prosecutors often prefer multiple layered charges.
Such cases may involve offences under the Anti-Bribery Act and other fraud-related statutes.
The Anti-Bribery Act criminalizes both the demand and receipt of unlawful financial advantages. It applies even where the promised influence or benefit never materializes.
In this case, prosecutors argue the accused sought to exploit fear and ambition within public service ranks. They say the alleged conduct reflects a calculated attempt to profit from false authority.
Anti-corruption investigators warn that such schemes often rely on insider knowledge and careful deception. They caution public officers against responding to unofficial demands regardless of perceived power.
The court proceedings underscore ongoing efforts to curb corruption and abuse of office impersonation. Authorities say strict enforcement remains essential to deter similar schemes across public institutions.
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