An imam accused of defrauding Muslim faithful through a purported pilgrimage scheme will on Tuesday learn whether he will be released on bail or remain in custody as investigations continue.
Ustadh Omar Athman, a Malindi-based cleric, was on Monday arraigned at the Milimani Chief Magistrate’s Court, less than 24 hours after his arrest at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport upon his return to the country.
He is accused of obtaining Sh 774,000 from Mohamed Salim Bahlewa by falsely claiming he would facilitate his participation in the Umrah pilgrimage to Mecca in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Appearing before Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina, Athman denied the charges. The court deferred its ruling on his bail application to Tuesday.
Police say the case has widened following Athman’s arrest, with several Muslims from different parts of the country reporting similar complaints at various police stations.
The complainants allege they were defrauded in schemes linked to the organisation of Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
Some of the alleged victims told investigators they suffered prolonged financial and emotional distress after paying for travel arrangements that never materialised.
One complainant said communication with the accused ceased shortly before the scheduled travel date.
Among those who have come forward are university students who claim they collectively paid KSh 862,201 to Athman in instalments for visa processing.
According to the students, 37 of them subscribed to the arrangement, each contributing approximately 100 US dollars, before the suspect allegedly went missing days before their planned departure.
The Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) has cautioned the public against engaging unauthorised individuals offering pilgrimage services at unusually attractive rates.
Officials warned that some operators collect money from unsuspecting worshippers before disappearing, leaving victims with substantial losses.
The court is expected to issue a ruling on the bail application on Tuesday as investigations continue.
