Gilbert Kiptoo Lelon, a teller at Equity Bank Kahawa Branch, is charged with theft.
An Equity Bank teller has been accused of orchestrating two thefts totalling more than KSh 1.2 million in just two days.
Gilbert Kiptoo Lelon, stationed at the bank’s Kahawa Branch, was arraigned before Senior Principal Magistrate Dolphina Alego on charges of stealing by servant contrary to Section 281 of the Penal Code.
According to court documents, On August 11, 2024, Lelon allegedly withdrew KSh 800,000 from customer Mary Kanini Kamuya’s account while serving her at the counter. On August 12, 2024, he is accused of stealing KSh 454,000 belonging to Equity Bank, money entrusted to him in his capacity as a teller.
The total sum stands at KSh 1,254,000.
Lelon denied all charges when presented before the magistrate. The court directed that he remain in custody until August 19, 2025, when a pre-bail report will be tabled to assess his eligibility for bail or bond.
The case has reignited debate about the safety of customer deposits and the risk of insider fraud within financial institutions. Experts warn that breaches of trust involving employees could damage public confidence in the banking sector if not addressed firmly.
