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Fake police recruitment suspect arrested

Detectives in Kilimani have arrested a man believed to be the mastermind of a well-coordinated fake police recruitment racket that swindled unsuspecting job seekers out of Sh2.5 million.

The suspect, identified as Benedict Odeng’ero Wekesa, was apprehended on Wednesday at Sagret Hotel in Kilimani after three victims filed complaints detailing how they were duped with promises of guaranteed entry into the National Police Service.

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Wekesa allegedly used forged police recruitment letters to convince his victims that their slots in the service were already secured—if only they could pay. Each victim surrendered hefty sums, believing the “recruitment officer” was authentic and well-connected.

By the time the scam unravelled, a total of Sh2.5 million had exchanged hands.

Detectives, acting on intelligence, traced the suspect to his hideout, where he was arrested in a swift operation. During the raid, officers recovered 20 additional fake police recruitment letters, signalling what investigators believe is a broader, highly organised fraud network targeting desperate job seekers nationwide.

Wekesa’s accomplice, who was reportedly with him moments before the arrest, fled upon sensing danger and is currently being pursued.

The DCI has since warned the public to be wary of fraudsters posing as police recruiters, emphasising that genuine recruitment into the National Police Service is free, fair, and transparent, with no payments required at any stage.

“Anyone asking for money in exchange for a police job is a criminal,” the agency said.

Members of the public have been urged to report such cases immediately to the nearest police station or anonymously through the #FichuaKwaDCI platform. Reports can be made via toll-free hotline 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.

Wekesa is currently in custody, undergoing processing, and will be arraigned once investigations are complete, as detectives follow new leads to track down his elusive accomplice.

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Crime Scene tape

A 34-year-old man was stabbed to death in Kasarani, Nairobi, after attempting to intervene in a domestic dispute, police reported on Thursday.

The victim, Paul Maina, had visited a woman’s home on Wednesday evening, November 19, to repair faulty speakers. The woman, known to him, told officers that Maina was not romantically involved with her, contrary to claims later made by her partner.

According to a police report, Maina was leaving the house when the woman’s partner arrived. An argument broke out, during which the man allegedly attacked the woman.

Maina rushed back into the house to help separate the two, but the situation escalated. Police say the suspect allegedly drew a knife and stabbed Maina in the chest and stomach before fleeing the scene.

Maina was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

Manhunt Underway

Police say efforts to trace and arrest the suspect are ongoing. Officers revisited the crime scene on Thursday as part of the ongoing investigation. The woman involved has also recorded a statement with detectives.

Maina’s body was moved to a local mortuary for an autopsy and further procedures.

Authorities noted that incidents of fatal disputes linked to relationships, domestic arguments, property disagreements, and finances continue to rise. The homicide unit reportedly handles up to eight murder cases nationwide each day, with a number still unresolved.

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Detectives in Nairobi have arrested a man who had been posing as a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) brigadier and allegedly fleecing unsuspecting youths with promises of military recruitment.

The suspect, identified as Joshua Mutui Muimi, was arrested in his rented apartment in Kilimani following an intelligence-led operation by Parklands-based officers. According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Muimi had fashioned himself into a high-ranking military officer—despite having no ties to the disciplined forces—and used the disguise to lure desperate job seekers.

Inside the apartment, detectives found him fully dressed in Kenya Air Force regalia, complete with insignia reserved for senior officers. A search of the premises uncovered a stash of incriminating documents, including:

  • Six fake admission letters to the Recruit Training School (RTS) in Eldoret — all bearing the same serial number
  • Seven fingerprint forms used to convince victims the recruitment was legitimate
  • Documents branded with the Ministry of Defence logo
  • A Yilmaz Defence Industry ammunition-manufacturing manual
  • Additional materials believed to have been used to authenticate his scheme

Investigators believe Muimi has been running an elaborate con targeting young Kenyans seeking entry into the military, promising them placement in exchange for cash.

“He upgraded himself from a civilian to a ‘KDF brigadier’ without ever stepping foot on a parade square,” the DCI said, describing the scheme as a “money-minting spree built on false hope.”

The suspect is currently in custody, undergoing processing, and will be arraigned once investigations are complete.

The DCI has urged the public to avoid shortcuts in security-sector recruitment, stressing that all genuine KDF enlistments are free, fair, and transparent.

“Do not fall victim to impostors. Report suspicious individuals immediately,” the agency warned.

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A prominent Mombasa-based lawyer is among 22 suspects arrested in a sweeping counter-terrorism operation targeting financiers, recruiters, and facilitators of terrorism across the country.

Andrew Chacha Mwita was arrested on Friday, November 14, 2025, following a sting operation conducted by the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) in coordinated raids across Mombasa, Nairobi, Kapseret, Marsabit, and Moyale.

Authorities say Mwita is suspected of financing terrorism, with investigators linking him to transactions and networks believed to support extremist activities. He was presented before the Kahawa Law Courts on Monday, where detectives sought a 20-day custodial order to complete investigations. A ruling is expected on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

The arrest is part of an intensified national crackdown aimed at dismantling terror support systems, a move the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) says is long overdue.

More Suspects in Court

Several other suspects arrested in Nairobi — Richard Muriuki Murimi, Said Galgalo Duba, Ali Mohamed, and Dhalha Abdi Mohamed — are also facing custodial applications. Their hearing was deferred to today, November 18.

In Kapseret, detectives tracked down and arrested Anthony Odhiambo Odwuor, whose custodial application ruling is set for November 25.

Meanwhile, in Mombasa, the courts will rule on November 26 on a 20-day custodial request for Miriam Ali Abdalla and Aisha Abdullahi.

Marsabit Sweep Produces Multiple Arrests

A major part of the operation unfolded in Marsabit County, where ATPU officers arrested seven suspects believed to be part of a broader network enabling terror activities in the northern region.

Those arrested include:

  • Fatuma Yabalo Guyo
  • Jilo Arafti Halake
  • Ajirena Halake Sora
  • Safia Ture Bidu
  • Kabale Duba Ali
  • Abdisalam Hassan Charfi

Investigators have sought 30 days to detain the group as they analyze intelligence, digital devices, and financial trails.

Hearings for the remaining seven suspects in the case continue today at the Kahawa Law Courts.

DCI: We’re Not Relenting

The DCI, through a statement on Tuesday, November 18, emphasized its commitment to rooting out terrorist networks.

“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations remains red-hot in the fight against terrorism and commits to leaving no stone unturned,” the agency said, urging the public to share information anonymously.

Kenyans were encouraged to report suspicious activities through the #FichuaKwaDCI hotline (0800 722 203) or WhatsApp (0709 570 000).

The sweeping arrests come amid increased coordination between intelligence agencies, ATPU, and local communities, signaling a tougher, more aggressive phase in Kenya’s counter-terrorism efforts.

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Crime Scene tape

Detectives in Nairobi have launched investigations into the sudden death of a 39-year-old man who collapsed shortly after leaving a gym in Eastleigh on Saturday morning.

According to police reports, the man, identified as Ali Abdile Mohamed, had completed his workout session at a local gym before stepping outside a nearby mall where he intended to board a vehicle home. Moments later, he reportedly collapsed to the ground, prompting bystanders to rush to his aid.

Ali was quickly transported to a hospital in South C, but medical personnel pronounced him dead on arrival.

Police say the circumstances leading to his collapse remain unclear. The body has since been moved to the mortuary, where a post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the cause of death.

Investigators are interviewing witnesses and reviewing the man’s recent activities as they work to establish whether the collapse was linked to an underlying medical condition, physical exertion, or any other factors.

Authorities have urged members of the public with any additional information to come forward as the probe continues.

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EACC

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) launched a sweeping search operation on Friday, November 14, 2025, targeting the residence and offices of a senior Board member at the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), escalating a major investigation into alleged bribery, extortion of investors, and unexplained wealth within the regulatory body.

The dramatic operation—backed by valid court warrants—has sparked fresh debate over corruption within agencies mandated to protect consumers and safeguard Kenya’s markets from counterfeit goods.

In a statement, the EACC confirmed that its investigators were conducting the searches as part of an extensive probe into suspected economic crimes.

“The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission is currently conducting a search operation pursuant to valid court orders,” the commission said, promising a more detailed briefing later.

Court-authorised raid targeting wealth, devices, cash and documents

According to a search warrant issued by the Chief Magistrate’s Anti-Corruption Court in Milimani, EACC was granted sweeping powers under the Criminal Procedure Code and the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act to raid two locations linked to the official.

The order authorises lead investigator John Nyagara—or any other EACC investigator—to enter, search and seize documents, electronic devices and valuables believed to be linked to corruption.

The warrant allows them to obtain items, including:

  • Laptops, desktops, hard drives, flash disks
  • Mobile phones and electronic devices
  • Cash suspected to be proceeds of corruption
  • Sale agreements, transfer documents and business records
  • Jewellery and luxury items
  • Safe boxes
  • Any materials deemed relevant to the investigation

The court also permitted the use of reasonable force, if necessary.

Warrant valid for 14 days

The search order, dated November 13, 2025, gives investigators 14 days—between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.—to execute the operation.

The matter will return to court on December 1, 2025, when EACC must file an inventory of everything seized and provide a progress update.

Non-compliance carries jail time

A penal notice attached to the warrant warns that any individual, company, or institution that obstructs the search risks:

  • up to one year in prison,
  • a fine of up to KSh2,000, or
  • both.

The raid has triggered significant public interest, given ACA’s role in regulating anti-counterfeit operations in a market long plagued by fake products and claims of collusion with rogue traders.

As EACC intensifies its investigations, all eyes now turn to the commission’s promised briefing—with Kenyans eager to know whether this probe will expose yet another corruption network inside one of the country’s key regulatory institutions.

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A British national’s romantic getaway in Mombasa turned into a nightmare after detectives uncovered a carefully staged robbery masterminded by a woman he had been courting online for months.

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Briton had been wooed by the suspect, Samira Mumbi Kiarie, alias Samira, who charmed him with promises of affection and long-term love. Convinced he had finally found “the one,” the man travelled to her upscale Nyali apartment for what he believed would be a perfect date.

Instead, he walked straight into a scripted heist.

Minutes after he arrived, the apartment door burst open. Two men stormed in—one posing as Samira’s enraged husband, the other flashing a fake police ID.

The alleged “husband” accused the Briton of destroying his marriage, while the bogus cop threatened immediate arrest.

Terrified and confused, the victim was coerced into transferring Sh800,000 to mobile numbers provided by the gang. Once the money landed, the trio escorted him out of the apartment and disappeared into the night.

Detectives later revealed that the entire incident was an elaborate setup.

Acting on forensic intelligence, DCI sleuths launched an operation that led to the arrest of Samira and one of her accomplices, Paul Webster Mangeni, alias Paulo. Investigations have established that the pair belongs to a notorious syndicate targeting foreigners through dating sites, luring them to rented apartments, and robbing them.

“Investigations have since established that the two are part of a notorious syndicate that lures foreigners through dating sites, sets them up in Airbnbs, and robbing them of their hard-earned money,” the DCI stated.

Both suspects are in custody, undergoing processing ahead of their arraignment, while a manhunt is underway for their third accomplice, who remains at large.

The DCI has warned tourists and residents to be vigilant when engaging with strangers online, especially those who invite them into private residences.

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Somali business Adan Haji Issack is on the spot for allegdgly hiring goons to evict and harass a city professor over a disputed piece of land in Nairobi.

According to a report filled at the Spring Valley Police Station under the OB number….., Adan Haji Issack allegdgly hired goons who made the life of the professor Miserable. He is yet to be arrested because the investigations just commenced.

The professor in question is Mr. Lumumba Nyaberi, a 60-year-old law professor, lawyer, and lecturer at Catholic University of Eastern Africa.

The professor’s problems allegdgly began after he tried to safeguard his land against alledged land grabbers.

The contested land is 1.2 acres and which is located on Peponi Road in Westlands.

The accusations against Adan Haji Issack is that, he allegdgly using force evicted the professor using goons armed with machetes and crude weapons with the intention of causing him harm.

If the DPP approves the Charges, the businessman will be charged with trespass which is an offence under the penal code.

A ghanian by the name Eric also involved in the land grabbing while siding with the Somali businessman

More to follow….

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Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have busted a high-profile gold scam in Nairobi, arresting two suspects accused of defrauding a foreign investor of USD 5.6 million (approximately KSh 860 million) in a fake gold deal.

According to a statement from the DCI, the suspects — identified as Michael Otieno Onyango and Andrew Clifford Otieno — were nabbed after attempting to swindle an American businesswoman through a carefully orchestrated scheme that promised her 70 kilograms of gold.

The con artists reportedly presented themselves as legitimate dealers and convinced the investor that the gold was genuine and ready for export. However, the woman insisted on verifying the authenticity of the gold through testing by the Ministry of Mining before making any payments — a move that quickly exposed the fraudulent operation.

DCI reports indicate that while the scammers initially agreed to the verification, they failed to show up for the scheduled gold testing, prompting the businesswoman to alert authorities.

Undeterred, the woman played along to help investigators gather more evidence. A second meeting was arranged at Rose Villa Estate in Nairobi, after she was picked up from Yaya Centre by one of the suspects’ associates under the guise of having a coffee meeting.

Once at the estate, the suspects attempted to pressure her into finalising the fake deal. However, their plan crumbled when they realised something was wrong. In a panic, they fled the scene in a blue Mazda CX-7, registration number KDP 336R.

Their escape was short-lived. DCI detectives, who had been tracking the operation closely, pursued and intercepted the vehicle, arresting both suspects.

A search conducted at House No. 27, Rose Villa Estate led to the recovery of crucial evidence — including two gold smelting machines and nineteen smelting moulds — items believed to have been used to convince victims of the legitimacy of their fake operations.

The DCI has in recent years intensified its crackdown on fake gold rackets, many of which have tarnished Kenya’s reputation in international trade circles. Authorities have urged foreigners and local investors to verify the authenticity of dealers through the Ministry of Mining and the DCI’s Serious Crimes Unit before engaging in any precious metal transactions.

The two suspects are expected to face multiple charges, including conspiracy to defraud and obtaining money by false pretences, once arraigned in court.

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IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has strongly condemned the increasing cases of violence and aggression directed towards officers of the National Police Service (NPS), terming the attacks as a grave threat to law and order.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan expressed deep concern over what he described as “unacceptable treatment of police officers” by some members of the public. He cited recent incidents at State House, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), and Kiganjo Police Station in Gatundu, Kiambu County, as alarming examples of the escalating hostility.

According to the Authority, the situation at Kiganjo Police Station was particularly distressing. A section of the facility was reportedly torched, leading to the destruction of key police infrastructure and severely hampering law enforcement operations in the region. Several officers were injured, and others lost their lives in the violence.

“The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is deeply concerned about the rising violence and unacceptable treatment directed towards members of the National Police Service (NPS) by some members of the public. Recent incidents have highlighted this troubling trend, including the disturbing events at State House, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), and Kiganjo Police Station in Gatundu, Kiambu County, where police officers were subjected to physical assaults, destruction of property, and, tragically, loss of life,” the statement read in part.

“Notably, at the Kiganjo Police Station, a section of the facility was torched, resulting in the destruction of critical police infrastructure and significantly compromising law enforcement operations in the area. These acts undermine public safety efforts and threaten the rule of law.”

IPOA has urged members of the public to exercise restraint, professionalism, and respect when interacting with law enforcement personnel. The oversight body emphasized that while citizens have a right to demand accountability from the police, such grievances should be pursued through lawful and peaceful means.

The Authority also extended condolences to the families of the officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, assuring that it will continue to monitor investigations into the incidents closely.

“IPOA urges members of the public to exercise restraint and professionalism when engaging with law enforcement officers. The Authority extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased police officers during this difficult time and calls upon the security agencies to act swiftly in bringing to justice those responsible for the arson attack,” IPOA stated.

The watchdog cautioned that continued hostility towards the police could derail ongoing reforms aimed at promoting accountability, discipline, and professionalism within the National Police Service.

IPOA concluded by reaffirming its commitment to upholding both police accountability and the protection of officers from unlawful harm, calling for a renewed partnership between the public and police in maintaining peace and security across the country.

“Attacking police officers not only constitutes lawlessness but also undermines the spirit and intent of ongoing police reforms, risking the erosion of hard-won progress in enhancing accountability and professionalism in policing,” the statement read.

“IPOA therefore urges all members of the public to uphold the rule of law and to seek redress through legally established channels in instances of police misconduct.”

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Crime Scene tape

Police in Nairobi have arrested a man after he attacked and stabbed a GSU Officer outside State House Gate D.

National Police Service (NPS) spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga in a statement issued on Monday, October 13 2025, said that the tragic incident happened at about 8:10 am on Monday, where the 56-year-old man, armed with a bow and arrows, rapidly approached the police officers stationed at State House Gate D.

“The National Police Service (NPS) confirms a tragic incident which occurredthis morning, Monday, 13th October 2025, at approximately 8:10 a.m., near State House Gate D in Nairobi. A 56-year-old man, armed with a bow and arrows, rapidly approached police officers stationed in the area,” the statement read.

The police officers challenged the man to surrender, but he instead advanced on Police Constable Ramadan Mattanka and shot him in the left ribs with an arrow.

The assailant was, however, subdued and arrested. The injured officer was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), where he succumbed to his injuries.

“Despite being challenged to surrender, the suspect advanced on Police Constable Ramadhan Mattanka and shot him in the left ribs with an arrow. General Service Unit (GSU) officers on duty swiftly subdued and arrested the assailant. The injured officer was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital, where he,unfortunately, succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment,” the statement read.

The NPS has condemned the incident, with an investigation being launched to establish the attacker’s motive.

“His body has been transferred to the hospital’s mortuary, pending a post-mortemexamination.The National Police Service condemns this heinous act and commends the officers for their swift response, which prevented further harm,” NPS stated.

“An investigation is ongoing to establish the motive behind the attack. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues ofthe late Constable Ramadhan Mattanka, who paid the ultimate price in the lineof duty. The officer’s next of kin have been notified, and the Service stands insolidarity with them during this difficult time.”

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Corporal Isaac Kipngetich (attached to Turkana County Police Headquarters). PHOTO/DCI

Detectives from the Operations Support Unit (OSU) have arrested four law enforcement officers accused of running an illegal arms and ammunition trade that has fueled insecurity and violence in various parts of the country.

According to a statement shared on social media by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the suspects include Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Ekidor Lotira Charles (based in Turkana), Corporal Isaac Kipngetich (attached to Turkana County Police Headquarters), Police Constable Ileli Cyrus Kisamwa (an armorer at the Central Firearms Stores in Industrial Area), and Constable Samson Muriithi Mutongu (a storeman also based in Industrial Area).

“Detectives from the Operations Support Unit have arrested four law enforcement officers suspected of being behind an illegal arms and ammunition trade that has contributed to insecurity and violence in various parts of the country. The four officers; Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Ekidor Lotira Charles (based in Turkana), Corporal Isaac Kipngetich (attached to Turkana County Police Headquarters), Police Constable Ileli Cyrus Kisamwa (an armorer at the Central Firearms Stores in Industrial Area), and Constable Samson Muriithi Mutongu (a storeman also based in Industrial Area), have been under investigation for some time due to their suspected involvement in the illegal trade of firearms and ammunition,” DCI stated.

Investigation

Authorities say the four had been under investigation for weeks after intelligence linked them to the black-market supply of ammunition and firearms. Their arrest follows days of profiling, surveillance, and forensic investigations by the OSU team.

The breakthrough came when Cpl Kipngetich was caught red-handed receiving a consignment of 1,000 rounds of ammunition from Constables Ileli and Mutongu, intended for ASP Lotira. Acting on additional intelligence, detectives later arrested Constable Mutongu, who was found with 19 assorted firearm magazines, firing pins, cleaning kits, and three spent 9mm cartridges.

“Their arrest follows days of detailed profiling, surveillance, and forensic investigations by the OSU team. The breakthrough came when Cpl Kipngetich was caught pants down after receiving a consignment of 1,000 rounds of ammunition from Constables Ileli and Mutongu, which was intended for ASP Ekidor Lotira,” the statement read.

Constable Ileli was also arrested while in possession of a Remington Rand Model 1911 pistol and two Ceska pistol firing pins, further tying him to the illegal trade.

Police Constable Ileli Cyrus Kisamwa (an armorer at the Central Firearms Stores in Industrial Area). PHOTO/DCI

The four officers have since been processed and will be arraigned in court on Monday, September 29, 2025.

In a statement, the National Police Service condemned the actions of the suspects, vowing to pursue and punish anyone within its ranks who betrays public trust by fueling violence through the illegal arms trade.

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Part of the Safaricom SIM cards that were seized during the M-PESA fraud crackdown in Mumias

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have seized over 5,000 SIM cards and 142 identity cards in a major M-PESA fraud crackdown in Mumias, Kakamega County.

DCI, in a statement shared via social media on Friday, September 26, said that during an intelligence-led operation conducted in Bomani Teachers’ estate, two individuals, namely Jonathan Ambwaya Kwini, 30, and his 23-year-old accomplice, Timothy Siloche Wesonga, were arrested and taken into custody.

“In a move to curb the rise of financial crime, law enforcement officers in Mumias East have arrested two key suspects involved in a series of M-Pesa fraud schemes in the area. The fraudsters, 30-year-old Jonathan Ambwaya Kwini and his 23-year-old accomplice Timothy Siloche Wesonga, were taken into custody during an intelligence-led operation in Bomani Teachers’ Estate of Mumias town,” DCI stated.

Jonathan Ambwaya Kwini, 30, and his 23-year-old accomplice, Timothy Siloche Wesonga, who were arrested in the M-PESA fraud crackdown in Mumias. PHOTO/DCI

According to the police, a Safaricom Mobicom phone, utilised for the registration of SIM cards, along with an array of devices – four small Itel phones, 70 Airtel SIM cards, 24 Telkom SIM cards, and over 5,000 Safaricom SIM cards – were among the recovered items.

“Acting on crucial tips, officers descended on the location where they made a significant recovery. Among the seized items were a Safaricom Mobicom phone, utilised for the registration of SIM cards, along with an array of devices: four Itel small phones, 70 Airtel SIM cards, 24 Telkom SIM cards, and over 5,000 Safaricom SIM cards. The haul also included 142 national ID cards belonging to various individuals, painting a picture of the suspects’ extensive operation,” the DCI statement read.

Both Kwini and Wesonga have since been escorted, along with the incriminating evidence, to Kakamega police station and are set to join a roster of other suspects and are scheduled to appear in court on Monday.

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Julius Mwale

Kenyan businessman Julius Mwale, the man behind the ambitious Mwale Medical and Technology City (MMTC) in Kakamega, is once again in the spotlight after being accused of defrauding American investors in a multi-million dollar deal.

Mwale and his wife, Kaila Mwale, are alleged to have misled a Utah couple, Matthew and Brooke Shaw, into investing $1.7 million (Ksh 217 million) in projects that promised high returns, including a battery manufacturing plant, smart city ventures, and infrastructure deals in Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Mwale Medical and Technology City (MMTC)
Mwale Medical and Technology City proprietor Julius Mwale. PHOTO/Courtesy

According to court filings, the Shaws claim Mwale showcased images of private jets, luxury estates, and high-level connections—including photos with international political figures—to bolster his credibility. They allege that much of the property portfolio presented by Mwale did not exist or was incomplete, including facilities in Kakamega that he touted as operational.

“The promises made by Mr. Mwale were fabricated to lure us into a false sense of security,” the Shaws said in their suit.

Julius Mwale’s Legal Battles Across States

The dispute has moved through U.S. courts, with filings in Utah later transferred to New York. In May 2025, Mwale secured a reprieve after one of the $1.5 million claims was voluntarily dismissed, citing venue and jurisdictional issues. Despite that victory, the larger fraud allegations remain unresolved.

Legal documents also show that Mwale entered into a Loan Modification Agreement with the Shaws but allegedly failed to honor the new repayment terms.

Julius Mwale’s Past Controversies

This is not the first time Mwale’s business empire has faced scrutiny. His company, Tumaz and Tumaz, has been linked to disputes over the Mumias Sugar lease, where rival bidders accused him of irregularities and misrepresentation. Analysts have also questioned the valuation of Tumaz and Tumaz, which Mwale has pegged at $60 billion, a figure that critics say lacks independent verification.

While Mwale has positioned himself as a billionaire philanthropist driving development in western Kenya, critics argue that his ventures often fall short of the grandeur portrayed in public.

Impact on Reputation

The allegations now raise serious questions about Mwale’s credibility among investors, both in Kenya and abroad. Analysts say the ongoing cases could deter potential backers from committing to his large-scale projects unless he provides greater transparency and audited proof of assets.

The Bigger Picture

Mwale has not publicly commented on the latest case, but his supporters insist that the lawsuits are attempts to discredit a man who has consistently invested in African development.

For now, the court battles in the U.S. continue, and the future of Mwale’s billion-dollar image hangs in the balance.

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Gold scam suspect Abbas Bardu Omuyoma. PHOTO/@DCI_Kenya/X

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Nairobi Regional Office have arrested Abbas Bardu Omuyoma, alias Ishmael, in connection with a multi-million shilling gold scam that defrauded a Canadian investor of USD 280,000 (approx. Ksh42 million).

The suspect was apprehended along Dennis Pritt Road in Nairobi, following weeks of forensic investigations and surveillance.

His arrest comes after the victim lodged a formal complaint on September 1, 2025.

The Gold Scam

According to investigators, Ishmael and an accomplice who is still at large lured the investor with promises of supplying 550 kilograms of gold nuggets and bars allegedly sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Believing he was entering into a legitimate business deal, the Canadian investor transferred the equivalent of USD 280,000 via USDT (Tether cryptocurrency). However, the gold consignment never materialised, and efforts to recover the funds proved futile.

The Arrest

Detectives launched an intensive probe, leveraging forensic leads to track Ishmael’s movements. On Monday, they intercepted and arrested him, bringing to an end weeks of evasion.

Currently in custody, Ishmael is undergoing processing pending his arraignment in court.

Hunt for Accomplice

DCI officers confirmed that a manhunt is underway for Ishmael’s accomplice, who is believed to have played a central role in the elaborate con.

The DCI has also urged members of the public and foreign investors to exercise caution when engaging in gold transactions in Kenya, warning that fraudsters continue to exploit unsuspecting victims using fake documents and false promises of Congolese gold.

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Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu

Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has suffered a major setback after the High Court dismissed his bid to overturn a 12-year jail term he is currently serving for corruption.

In a ruling delivered on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, Lady Justice Lucy Njuguna rejected an application filed by Waititu on August 28, 2025, in which he sought to review the sentence handed to him earlier this year.

Waititu’s Case

In February 2025, Waititu was convicted on corruption-related charges and ordered to either pay a fine of Ksh53.5 million or serve 12 years in prison.

The court found that he irregularly received Ksh25 million from Testimony Enterprises following the award of a flawed tender, in violation of procurement laws and public trust.

The former governor, popularly known as “Baba Yao”, failed to raise the hefty fine and has since been serving time at Kamiti Maximum Prison.

Court Ruling

Justice Njuguna said the sentence will remain in force until Waititu’s pending appeal is heard and determined.

She directed that the appeal be concluded within 120 days, warning that unnecessary delays by the ex-governor could see the case struck out altogether.

“Justice Njuguna ruled that the sentencing will stand pending the hearing and determination of Waititu’s appeal. She further directed that the appeal be concluded within 120 days, warning that any delays on the part of the former governor could lead to the case being struck out,” the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) said in a statement shared on social media on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

Kamiti Stay Continues

Waititu had also sought release on bond but failed to meet the strict terms imposed by the court, which included depositing a Ksh53 million bank guarantee.

As a result, he will continue serving his term at Kamiti Maximum Prison until the appeal is concluded.

The case will be mentioned again on October 1, 2025, when directions on the appeal process are expected to be given.

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