Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested 14 suspects believed to be part of a sophisticated gold scamming syndicate in Nairobi. The arrests come after weeks of surveillance into a scheme linked to a $1.35 million fraud.
In a statement released by the DCI, the investigative team revealed that the operation followed intensive forensic-led intelligence. The suspects were apprehended in a house along Chalbi Drive, Lavington, identified as the syndicate’s operational base. The premises housed various offices used for the fraudulent transactions and smelting of a purported 2,820 kilograms of gold between March and May 2024.
The arrested individuals include Ronald Osonga Khejiria, Emmanuel Wafula Thatcher, Willy Kiplimo Metto, Sharon Achieng Ouma, Tracey Achieng, Luck Bahaya Butelezi, Willis Odhiambo Koyi, Erina Notoila Gitau, Edgar Wafula Odinga, Patrick Kariuki Mahugu, Denis Osoo, Boniface Nemesis Waswa, John Michugu Gathaira, and Eliud Wachira Githaiga. During the raid, detectives seized various documents, files, stamps, and seals used to con victims into believing the authenticity of the gold transactions.
The operation is part of an ongoing crackdown on organized crime rings exploiting unsuspecting victims through fraudulent gold deals. Earlier, two other suspects, Eric Kalala Mukendi and Antonucci Sergio Patrick, were arraigned in connection to the scam, with their first mention scheduled for January 23, 2025, at the Milimani Law Courts.
The DCI cautioned the public against falling prey to such scams, which often lure victims with promises of lucrative returns from non-existent gold deals. “This arrest is a significant step in dismantling a criminal enterprise that has defrauded individuals and tarnished the reputation of legitimate gold trade,” the DCI report stated.
Investigations are ongoing, with authorities determined to bring all involved to justice. The suspects are expected to face charges of fraud, conspiracy to defraud, and forgery in court. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
