Khalif Kairo Faces Jail Term Over Ksh45M Range Rover

Nairobi-based social media personality and businessman Khalif Kairo has been hit with tax fraud charges, adding fuel to the fire of his already controversial public image.

Kairo, known for flexing luxury rides online, appeared in court alongside his company, Kai & Karo Limited, at the Nyeri Law Courts. The case follows a probe by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

KRA claims that on January 10, 2024, Kairo allegedly misrepresented a Land Rover Range Rover Vogue as a used Range Rover Sport to dodge Ksh1.28 million in customs duty.

"Businessman Joseph Kairo Wambui, famously known as Khalif Kairo, and his company Kai & Karo Limited have been charged at Nyeri Law Court with tax fraud of Ksh1,283,830," read part of the KRA statement.

"Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) investigations established that Kairo, being the director of Kai & Karo Limited, knowingly misdeclared a Land Rover Range Rover Vogue as a used Land Rover Range Rover Sport on January 10, 2024, to evade payment of customs duty of Ksh1,283,830."

Photo of a Range Rover Vogue. /INCHCAPE KENYA

Kairo was formally accused of knowingly taking part in the fraudulent evasion of duty. He pleaded not guilty to the charge and was granted release on a bond of Ksh500,000.

The case is set to be mentioned on June 4, 2025. If convicted, he could face up to three years in prison or a fine of up to Ksh1 million.

Price Of Range Rover Vogue

As of May 2025, the cost of a Range Rover Vogue in Kenya varies significantly depending on the model year, condition (new, locally used, or foreign-used), and specific trim features. Older models from around 2014 to 2016 are currently priced between Ksh 6.75 million and Ksh 9.5 million. These are typically locally used or low-mileage imports that offer the signature luxury feel of a Range Rover at a more accessible price point.

Mid-range models, such as those from 2017 to 2019, tend to go for Ksh 13 million to Ksh 19 million. These versions often come with upgraded features like advanced infotainment systems, enhanced interior designs, and more efficient engines. They are a solid choice for buyers looking for a balance between modern tech and a lower price compared to newer editions.

Newer models from 2022 and 2023 are priced around Ksh 13 million and above, depending on the condition and trim level. Some listings offer financing, making these more recent models slightly more accessible to premium buyers. 

Meanwhile, the 2025 models, especially top-tier variants like the Autobiography, can go up to KSh 45 million, thanks to their cutting-edge features, luxury finishes, and high performance. It is unclear which model is in focus in this particular case.

The overall pricing is influenced by factors such as trim level, mileage, vehicle condition, and added luxury features like panoramic sunroofs, premium leather interiors, and off-road enhancements.

Kairo, who has a 'boastful' personality, has been involved in multiple legal battles over failed car sale deals, spending the last days of last year and the beginning of this year defending himself in court.

In one of his recent arrests, Kairo described his detention as “politically motivated.” In a cryptic post, he hinted that his troubles stem from sabotage and a witch hunt, expressing confidence that he would make a comeback with the support of Kenyans.

"This is politically motivated. Every time I start waking up, getting deals here and there, and going back to work, the arrests mysteriously begin. No summons, no nothing. And conveniently, cameras are always rolling, even inside police stations," Kairo remarked.

“Can’t keep a man who is determined to win down. We will overcome everything. Keep praying for me, keep supporting and keep wishing me well. It's a tough economy that doesn’t favour youth-driven enterprise, but calm seas never make good sailors."

The car dealer stated that the ongoing cases, which have harmed his reputation, have also forced the closure of his offices.

''We have tried everything in our ability to try to resolve these issues amicably and ensure we do deliveries, but the negative media publicity and constant police involvement are putting us in deeper waters and severely affecting our ability to operate. All our offices are currently closed,'' Kairo once shared.

Despite the fraud allegations amounting to tens of millions of shillings, he has consistently insisted on his innocence. ''I have had an impressive 10-year run in business with zero criminal cases pertaining to cars, and thousands of people have successfully bought cars from me,'' he added.