Tarus Stephen Kipkiyeny, a Kenyan businessman and former assistant minister for internal security in Mwai Kibaki’s government, is set to appear in court on January 18, 2024, for a bail application concerning charges related to alleged tax fraud and falsifying documents.
Kipkiyeny faces accusations of making false documents under section 203(b) of the East African Community Customs Act, 2004, as amended. The charges stem from allegations of tax fraud and the possession of a forged tax invoice. During his previous appearance at the Nakasero-based Anti-Corruption Court on January 10, 2024, Kipkiyeny lacked sureties, leading to his remand until the upcoming court date.
The prosecution, led by Stuart Ahabwe, a legal officer at Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), claims that Kipkiyeny was found in possession of a forged tax invoice. Additionally, it is alleged that, in January 2024, he and others at large falsified customs documents related to gold bars weighing 13 kilograms, attempting to deceive authorities by using fabricated URA receipt numbers and invoices.
The charges extend to the assertion that Kipkiyeny presented a Bill of Lading as a genuine document, dated August 12, 2022, when, in fact, it was allegedly falsified. The prosecution contends that these actions were part of an attempt to smuggle gold.
If found guilty under section 203 of the East African Community Customs Management Act of 2004, Kipkiyeny could face a term of imprisonment not exceeding three years or a fine not exceeding $10,000 (approximately shillings 37.7 million), or both.
The court proceedings will shed light on the allegations against the former Kenyan minister and his involvement in the purported gold smuggling and tax fraud activities.
