Kenya’s Ekumbo Denies Theft But Will Face New Sex Assault Charge

Mr Ekumbo in the dock. Reuters

Kenya Olympic official Ben Ekumbo has offered to refund more than US$10,000 (£8,000) intended for the national team's Rio 2016 preparations, which ended up in his personal account. 

Trainers recovered from Mr Ekumbo's home during a raid. BBC

BBC Africa Sport report continues:

Police charged Mr Ekumbo, vice-chairman of the National Olympics Council of Kenya (NOCK), with theft of the money as well as sports kits and shoes meant for Team Kenya during the Games.

Mr Ekumbo, who has been in custody for three days, appeared in court and denied two charges of theft.

The official told the court he did not know who put the cash in his account. 

But the prosecution said they had evidence that he stole the cash from the Ministry of Sports.

The court was also told that police are preparing additional charges of sexual assault against Mr Ekumbo, who also serves as the Kenya swimming federation president.

He has been denied bail and will remain in police custody until Monday.

In September, Kenya’s Chef de mission Stephen Soi, Vice President Pius Ochieng, Secretary General Francis Paul and Treasurer Fridah Shiroya were charged with misappropriating over US$250,000.