This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
On June 29, 2019, a Kisumu court witnessed a dramatic scene as the prosecution struggled to produce cakes as evidence in a case against two foreigners accused of selling cakes and being in the country illegally.
Immigration Officer Joseph Kilimo, a key witness, was cross-examined by lawyer Onyango Onguso, who represented the two accused, Lukyanenko Serphy and Kordupel Volodymyr.
“Where are the cakes or vegetables that were nabbed as exhibit from my clients’ house?” Onguso asked, questioning the prosecution's evidence.
Kilimo explained that the cakes and vegetables were perishable goods and could not have lasted long, but Onguso countered that his clients could not have sold them if they didn't speak the local languages.
“My clients are in court with a translator, meaning they don’t speak all these languages. Can the prosecution tell the court how they managed to market and sell their products?” Onguso said.
Despite the drama, Serphy and Volodymyr were remanded in custody until July 4, 2019, after failing to secure local surety.
