Meet Jack Zollo, also known as John Baptista Kiriamiti, a man whose life has been a tale of transformation from a notorious figure in the criminal underworld to a celebrated author and family man. Having spent more years behind bars than in the free world, he now shares his journey, encompassing bank robberies, car hijackings, and a life confined within the walls of Kamiti Maximum Prison.
In a recent interview on “Metha ya Kagoni,” a show broadcasted on Mt. Kenya TV and YouTube, Kiriamiti reflected on the tumultuous era of the mid to late 70s, marked by a wave of bank heists and vehicle thefts. He delved into the impact of armed robbery and incarceration, shedding light on the challenges that can make one’s life profoundly miserable
Kiriamiti reminisced about his criminal gang, emphasizing their unique qualities—a union of sharp minds, punctuality, and a deep respect for humanity. Remarkably, their criminal activities never targeted civilians or inflicted harm on anyone.
His stint in prison spanned nearly 35 years, a significant portion of which was within the confines of the heavily guarded Kamiti Maximum Prison. It was during this period that his foray into writing commenced. Fueled by a newfound passion for reading, Kiriamiti’s literary journey took flight. Today, he stands as a renowned author with a portfolio of over five best-selling novels.
Change is a recurring theme in Kiriamiti’s life, evident in his acclaimed works such as “My Life in Crime,” “My Life with a Criminal,” and “Son of Fate,” among others. Through his writings, he explores the profound transformations that life experiences can instigate.
In the present day, John Kiriamiti is not only an accomplished author but also a family man and a proud father of three daughters. In a moment of lightheartedness, he humorously expresses relief at not having a son, joking that he wouldn’t want someone resembling his past self in his family. This once-infamous figure has truly undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, proving that redemption and a new beginning are attainable for even the most unlikely individuals.
