GOSPEL SINGER IN COURT OVER SH50M LAND SCAM

Alex Nyachonga Apoko, popularly known as Ringtone, appeared before the Milimani Law Courts on charges related to an alleged Sh50 million land scam.

Ringtone is accused of conspiracy to defraud, false swearing, and perjury, stemming from an attempt to unlawfully claim a 0.1908-hectare parcel of land in Runda.

The case originated from a complaint lodged at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations Headquarters on May 18, 2023. The complainant, a woman who legally owns the property, alleged that Ringtone, alongside his accomplice Juma Ayoro and a group of hired thugs, stormed her Runda residence. The group reportedly forcibly evicted the caretaker and took possession of the property, sparking a legal battle that has now landed the singer in hot water.

Following the complaint, DCI’s Land Fraud detectives launched investigation, uncovering a web of deceit. Detectives established that Ringtone and his accomplice conspired to defraud the victim by filing a fraudulent affidavit on February 28, 2023. In the affidavit, Ringtone falsely claimed adverse possession of the land, asserting he had resided on the property for over two decades.

However, investigations revealed that the victim has been the rightful owner since March 14, 2000, diligently paying all applicable rates and bills to date.

Armed with irrefutable evidence, detectives secured a warrant for Ringtone’s arrest on April 14, 2025. The suspect, however, proved elusive, evading law enforcement for weeks. His run from justice ended dramatically when detectives trailed him down to a hideout in Kasarani, apprehending him.

Appearing before court, Ringtone faced multiple charges, including conspiracy to defraud, false swearing, and perjury. He pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

Ringtone was denied bail and has been remanded at the Industrial Area prison. He will be arraigned on Monday for a hearing of his bail application.