Khalif Kairo arrested over car fraud and repossession

Joseph Kairo Wambui, also known as Khalif Kairo, a businessman and second-hand car dealer, was arrested on Saturday after a client accused him of selling a car with an existing loan. 

The vehicle, a 2014 Volvo V40, was repossessed by auctioneers when the buyer discovered it was encumbered by debt, despite initial assurances of a smooth transaction.

The news was first reported by blogger Cyprian Is Nyakundi, who revealed that Kairo was taken into custody at Capitol Hill Police Station for questioning. This arrest follows a complaint from the buyer, who had grown frustrated after the issue remained unresolved for an extended period. Police reports indicate that the car was purchased on October 19, 2024, with the buyer being promised an easy logbook transfer. However, the situation took a turn when the buyer learned the vehicle was tied to an unpaid debt, contradicting the terms of the agreement.

Despite repeated assurances from Kairo and his team that the issue would be sorted, the matter escalated on December 18, when auctioneers arrived at the buyer's workplace to repossess the car. According to the buyer, Kairo had repeatedly assured her that the debt had been settled. After a confrontation with Kairo, vague promises were made to resolve the issue by December 20, but communication ceased after that, leading the buyer to file a police report.

Kairo’s arrest on January 11 is the latest in a series of legal troubles. In December 2024, he was detained at Kasarani Police Station in connection with another fraudulent case. Police confirmed he allegedly pocketed millions from a client who had paid for high-end cars that were never delivered. Other complainants later came forward, prompting the authorities to open a case file against him.

Kairo, known for his social media presence and portrayal as a wealthy entrepreneur, responded to the allegations with a defiant statement. “Every big entrepreneur must face litigation or money problems, especially when God is taking you to higher levels,” he wrote online, brushing off the claims as part of the normal challenges faced by successful businesspeople.

He is expected to appear in court on Monday. Despite the ongoing legal issues, Kairo remains a prominent figure in Kenya’s automotive industry through his car dealership, Kai and Karo. He has also ventured into aviation, launching Jetman Global in 2023, a company specializing in aircraft leasing, sales, and consultancy services. Kairo, passionate about aviation, is working to foster a culture of aircraft ownership in Kenya and aims to make flying more accessible to the public.

Kairo remains optimistic about his future business ventures, which include expanding his operations across Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. His ultimate goal is to democratize aircraft charters and establish his own airline, even as he navigates his ongoing legal battles.