An Equity Bank teller stationed at the Kahawa branch was on Friday arraigned in court over allegations of stealing more than Sh1.2 million from both a client and the bank.
The teller, identified as Gilbert Kiptoo Lelon, faced two separate counts of theft. The prosecution informed the court that on August 11, 2024, Lelon unlawfully withdrew Sh800,000 from a customer’s account.
The following day, on August 12, 2024, he allegedly stole Sh454,000 belonging to the bank. The total amount in dispute stands at Sh1,254,000.
According to the charge sheet presented before the magistrate, the teller used his position to gain access to the funds.
The prosecution stated that the actions not only betrayed the trust of the bank but also put at risk the confidence that customers place in financial institutions.
Customers line up to deposit and withdraw money at a Equity Bank teller. Photo: Nation Source: Facebook.
Lelon denied the charges and was represented by his lawyer, who sought bail. The prosecution opposed the application and asked the court to first obtain a pre-bail report.
The presiding magistrate directed that the accused remain in custody until August 19, 2025, when the report will be presented and the question of bail considered.
The case has reignited debate on financial security within the banking sector. Equity Bank, in particular, has previously faced public criticism following incidents where customers claimed to have lost large sums either through fraudulent withdrawals or suspected collusion involving staff.
In several past cases, clients have alleged that once they withdrew significant amounts, they were later targeted by organised criminals or found suspicious deductions from their accounts.
Equity Bank customers waiting to be served by a bank teller. Source; Tuko Source: Facebook.
While the bank has maintained that it invests heavily in safeguarding customer funds, Friday’s arraignment has drawn attention to lingering concerns.
Members of the public who attended the proceedings voiced fears that such cases undermine confidence in banking institutions that are expected to provide the utmost safety for deposits.
The magistrate further directed the prosecution to supply all witness statements and documents to the defence ahead of the next mention date. The matter will be mentioned again on August 19, 2025.
