In a case that has rocked Egypt’s electronics market and raised fresh concerns about corruption and accountability, over 1,100 government-issued educational tablets were stolen and resold through one of the country’s most popular tech retail chains, Koko and S.
At the center of the scandal is Kerles “Koko” Heshmat, the company’s founder, now facing a 10-year prison sentence and a fight to restore both his freedom and reputation.
Who Is Kerles “Koko” Heshmat?
Kerles Heshmat, known publicly as “Koko,” is the founder of Koko and S, a popular electronics and household goods across Cairo that started online first, and grew to multiple physical stores.
The Tablet Theft Scandal
In September 2024, the Ministry of Education reported the disappearance of 1,100 tablets from its warehouse in 6th of October City.
The tablets were part of a government initiative to digitize education across public schools.
Investigators later discovered that two ministry employees had orchestrated the theft, selling the devices to black-market dealers, who in turn passed them on to local retailers, including Koko and S.
Charges Against Koko
Kerles “Koko” Heshmat was charged with trafficking stolen government property after authorities linked him to the resale of the missing tablets.
In his absence, he was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor. Upon returning to Egypt from China in August 2025 and surrendering to authorities, his sentence was reduced to 10 years, though appeals and further investigations are ongoing.
How the Stolen Tablets Entered the Market
The supply chain of the stolen devices began with two insiders at the ministry, who quietly removed hundreds of tablets over time.
These were sold to underground dealers who then distributed them to various traders, among them, Koko and S. Some dealers were released after claiming they acted in good faith.
However, Kerles and a business partner faced harsher legal action for allegedly profiting from the sale.
Koko’s Defense
Kerles maintains his innocence, insisting he did not know the tablets were stolen.
In a livestream from China before his surrender, he expressed trust in the Egyptian judiciary and claimed he purchased the tablets legally through a trusted dealer.
“I never knowingly sold illegal goods,” he stated. “I acted in good faith, like any honest businessman.”
Did Koko and S Stores Close?
Despite the scandal, Koko and S stores remained open. Kerles immediately halted the sale of the disputed tablets and asked customers to return any purchased units.
The company resumed normal operations, but the controversy caused a sharp decline in customer trust and brand reputation.
Impact on the Brand
Once hailed for bringing affordable tech to the masses, Koko’s brand now faces public skepticism.
Sales dropped significantly after the news broke, and the company launched campaigns to rebuild trust.
Whether these efforts succeed may depend on the outcome of Koko’s legal battle—and public perception of his role in the scandal.
Public Reactions: Victim or Villain?
Social media lit up with debate. Some defended Koko, seeing him as a victim of a deeper corruption network, while others accused him of knowingly profiting from government resources meant for students. The case has become a flashpoint in discussions about Egypt’s retail ethics and state accountability.
What’s Next for Koko?
Now facing a 10-year prison sentence, Kerles Heshmat continues to appeal his conviction and insists he will clear his name. His downfall has become a symbol of larger issues facing Egypt’s business and legal systems, where trust, transparency, and justice often collide.
