The Mombasa High Court has issued interim orders suspending criminal investigations against Power Parts Kenya Limited, a supplier of container equipment to the Kenya Ports Authority. The investigations were launched after KPA reported the company to the DCI, alleging that five Kalmar container handlers worth KSh 195 million were diverted to a port in a neighboring country.
The court, in a petition filed by Power Parts Kenya Limited, has barred the DCI from arresting or summoning the company's directors. The matter is set for hearing on October 5, 2026. Lady Justice Wendy Kagendo Micheni issued the interim conservatory orders on September 16, 2026. The orders suspend the effect of a complaint filed by KPA on September 1, 2026, and the DCI's decision to open investigations.
The dispute centers on five Kalmar Empty Container Handlers purchased by KPA from Power Parts and Finnish manufacturer Kalmar for KSh 195 million. Power Parts is described as Kalmar's local agent in Kenya. KPA alleges that although the company received full payment for the equipment, the machines were not delivered to Mombasa Port but diverted to a port in a neighboring country in October 2025.
The Kenya Ports Authority has described the incident as economic sabotage involving public funds. Two of the five machines remain accounted for, while three others are reportedly untraceable. KPA has shifted its primary focus from recovering the machines to recouping the money paid. The authority has filed a separate civil suit against both Kalmar and Power Parts demanding a full refund of the KSh 195 million.
Power Parts Kenya Limited is owned by Bharat Devidas Jeram Veitha, a Kenyan national, and Vishal Soni, a UK citizen. The DCI has indicated it intends to contest the court orders and defend its investigative mandate. The court has also directed the respondents to file an affidavit within seven days disclosing the whereabouts, custody, and condition of two of the machines.
The Mombasa High Court has ordered the DCI and its officers to seal, preserve, and deposit with the deputy registrar any material already seized under the disputed magistrate's court warrant. The respondents were ordered to file their responses within 10 days of service, which the court directed be completed by the close of business on September 17.
In related news, the DCI has arrested two Flexitech Group Limited directors over the alleged diversion of KSh 31.2 million from a leading retail chain. The suspects are accused of failing to remit payments collected from customers across multiple branches. The case centers on funds allegedly redirected for personal use instead of being transferred to the retailer.
Key points
- The Mombasa High Court has suspended a DCI investigation into Power Parts Kenya Limited over a KSh 195 million container equipment deal.
- The court has barred the DCI from arresting or summoning Power Parts directors.
- KPA alleges that Power Parts diverted five Kalmar container handlers to a port in a neighboring country after receiving full payment.
