Gospel artiste Ringtone, whose real name is Alex Apoko, has been released from custody after securing a KSh 3 million bond following his arrest on fraud-related charges. His release came after spending four days behind bars in connection with an alleged conspiracy to illegally acquire a prime piece of land located in the affluent Karen suburb. The contested land, valued at KSh 50 million, has been the center of a legal battle, with Ringtone claiming ownership through adverse possession, insisting that he has occupied the property for over two decades without any dispute.
Ringtone appeared before the court on May 19, where he was granted a KSh 3 million bond or an alternative cash bail of KSh 1 million. His release was also conditional upon the provision of two contact persons who would act as sureties. The case is set for a hearing on August 6, 2025, where more details regarding the allegations and the defense are expected to emerge.
The gospel artist was remanded on May 15 alongside his co-accused, Alfred Ayora Juma, who is facing additional charges. While Ringtone is charged with conspiracy to commit fraud, Ayora is facing two extra counts for allegedly lying under oath. Specifically, Ayora has been accused of false swearing and perjury, with claims that he knowingly provided misleading information under oath and presented falsified affidavits during legal proceedings at the Environment and Land Court concerning the disputed property.
The parcel of land at the heart of the dispute is registered under Teresiah Adhiambo Odhiambo and is listed as NAIROBI/BLOCK 99/142. According to court documents, Ringtone insists his claim to the land is legitimate based on adverse possession, a legal principle that allows someone to claim ownership of property if they have occupied it continuously and openly for a specific period, in this case, over 20 years.
Despite Ringtone’s assertions, the complainant maintains that the property was acquired fraudulently, prompting the legal proceedings that led to the artist’s arrest. The accusations have sparked considerable attention, drawing public interest to the long-standing debate over land ownership rights and the application of adverse possession in Kenya.
As the case progresses, all eyes will be on the upcoming court hearing to see how the claims of adverse possession stand against the allegations of fraudulent acquisition. If proven guilty, the consequences could be severe, not only affecting Ringtone’s reputation but also setting a legal precedent on matters of adverse possession claims in high-value property disputes.
For now, Ringtone is back to his daily life but under close watch, with the looming court date set to determine the next chapter of this high-profile land dispute.
