Funds intended for the late Albert Ojwang’s burial disappear from his father’s account; the family alleges a swindle.
The family of the late Albert Ojwang, a 32-year-old Kisumu resident who passed away last week, is reeling after discovering that funds raised for his burial have disappeared from his father’s bank account.
The family alleges they have been swindled, pointing to foul play in the handling of the contributions.
According to Mr Joseph Ojwang, the deceased’s father, over KSh 450,000 was collected through community contributions and mobile money transfers to support funeral expenses.
The funds were deposited into his bank account for safekeeping. However, when the family attempted to withdraw the money on Friday to cover burial costs, they found the account nearly empty, with only KSh 3,200 remaining.
“I trusted the bank to keep the money safe. We were shocked to learn it was gone,” a distraught Mr Ojwang told reporters.
“This was meant to give my son a dignified send-off. Someone has stolen from us.”
The family claims the account was accessed without their consent, suspecting either internal collusion at the bank or a targeted scam.
They have reported the matter to the Kisumu Central Police Station, where investigations are underway. Police confirmed they are probing the case as a possible case of fraud but declined to provide further details.
A bank representative, speaking anonymously, stated that the institution is cooperating with authorities to trace the missing funds.
“We are reviewing the account activity and will ensure a thorough investigation,” the source said.
Albert’s sister, Ms. Grace Anyango, expressed the family’s anguish, noting that the loss has compounded their grief.
“We are mourning our brother, and now we have to deal with this betrayal. We appeal to anyone with information to come forward,” she said.
The family has postponed the burial, originally scheduled for this weekend, as they scramble to raise new funds.
Community members have rallied behind them, with some launching a fresh fundraiser to ensure Albert’s final rites are conducted.
