Former KU Lecturer Sues Driver Over Ksh.1.4 Million Bank Fraud

Former Kenyatta University lecturer and retired middle-distance athlete Mike Kipsugut Boit revealed in an Eldoret court how he lost Ksh.1.4 million to a trusted driver over a period of three years. The 76-year-old Professor of Exercise and Sports Science told the court that his driver, Kevin Kipruto Lagat, secretly obtained his M-Pesa PIN and waited for the right opportunity to access his bank accounts.

Boit testified before Eldoret Chief Magistrate Dennis Mikoyan that he had trusted Lagat enough to allow him to conduct money transactions using his mobile phone in his presence. The professor described being shocked when he discovered that his driver had used the mobile phone of a person who died 15 years ago to fraudulently transfer money to the deceased’s account.

What Were the Details of the Fraud?

The court heard that Boit hired Lagat daily to drive him from Nandi Hills to Nairobi for work-related trips. Lagat allegedly unlawfully accessed Boit’s KCB account, transferring Ksh.550,304 belonging to the professor. Court documents further indicate that the accused accessed another KCB account in Nandi Hills, transferring Ksh.480,000 belonging to Boit.

The fraudulent transactions reportedly occurred on multiple dates between December 23, 2023, and January 27, 2025, in Eldoret City, Uasin Gishu County. Boit reported the matter to Naiberi Police Station in Ainabkoi Sub-County and filed a formal statement to initiate investigations.

What’s Next in the Case?

Lagat is represented in court by lawyer Tecla Tum. While the accused faces multiple charges of unlawfully and fraudulently accessing Boit’s accounts, the case has been adjourned to January 26, 2026, for further hearing.

This case highlights the risks of misplaced trust and the growing incidents of digital fraud, even among people who are considered close and reliable. Boit’s testimony demonstrates the lengths fraudsters can go to manipulate banking systems, making vigilance crucial for all bank users.

By Modester Nasimiyu