A Kenyan court has ruled that the government can seize a cash gift of approximately $738,000 (£599,000) given to Felista Nyamathira Njoroge, a 23-year-old student, by her Belgian boyfriend.
Marc De Mesel, a Belgian YouTube cryptocurrency enthusiast, sent her the money in 2021.
However, the large sum piqued the interest of authorities and Kenya’s Asset Recovery Agency.
They ordered the funds to be frozen in December 2021, with the condition that the source of the funds be explained.
While Ms. Njoroge claims the money was obtained legally “through business and personal relationships,” the judge ruled in court that the source of the funds had not been explained.
Ms. Njoroge and Mr. De Mesel were most likely involved in a money-laundering scheme, according to Esther Maina.
The funds will now be transferred to the state.
Mr. De Mesel was also investigated for transferring large sums of money to several other women in Kenya.
