Joseph Kairo Wambui, also known as Khalif Kairo, a businessman and used car dealer, was arrested on Saturday after a customer 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 burdened with debt, despite initial assurances of a smooth transaction.
The news was first reported by blogger Cyprian Is Nyakundi, who revealed that Kairo was arrested at the Capitol Hill police station for questioning. This arrest follows a complaint from the buyer, frustrated by the fact that the problem remained unresolved for a long time. Police reports indicate that the car was purchased on October 19, 2024, with the buyer promised an easy transfer of the logbook. However, the situation changed when the buyer learned that the vehicle was tied to an unpaid debt, which contradicted the terms of the agreement.
Despite repeated assurances from Kairo and his team that the problem would be resolved, 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 him that the debt had been settled. After a confrontation with Kairo, vague promises were made to resolve the issue by December 20, but communication then stopped, leading the buyer to file a police report.
Kairo’s arrest on January 11 is the latest in a series of legal problems. In December 2024, he was arrested at Kasarani police station in connection with another fraud case. Police confirmed he allegedly pocketed millions from a customer who paid for high-end cars that were never delivered. Other complainants later came forward, prompting authorities to open a case against him.
Kairo, known for his social media presence and portrayal as a wealthy entrepreneur, responded to the allegations with a statement of defiance. “Every great entrepreneur has to deal with litigation or money problems, especially when God takes you to higher levels,” he wrote online, dismissing such claims as part of the normal challenges faced. faced by successful businessmen.
He is expected to appear in court on Monday. Despite ongoing legal issues, Kairo remains a prominent figure in the Kenyan automotive industry through his car dealership, Kai and Karo. He also ventured into aviation by launching Jetman Global in 2023, a company specializing in aircraft leasing, sales and consulting services. Kairo, who is passionate about aviation, strives to foster a culture of aircraft ownership in Kenya and aims to make flying more accessible to the public.
Kairo remains optimistic about its future business ventures, which include expanding its operations in Africa, the Middle East and the Caribbean. His ultimate goal is to democratize plane chartering and start his own airline, even as he fights his ongoing legal battles.
