A U.S. citizen, Antonucci Sergio Patrick, is facing charges in Kenya for allegedly masterminding a fraudulent gold scam worth Ksh. 174 million (USD 1.35 million). The charges include conspiracy to commit a felony and obtaining money by false pretences. Sergio was arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi on Monday after being apprehended upon his arrival in Kenya from Dubai.
Sophisticated Gold Scam Uncovered
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Sergio reportedly posed as a former banker, investor, and legal consultant with expertise in managing complex and high-risk markets. This guise earned the trust of the complainant, a fellow U.S. national, during their initial meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada, in July 2023.
Impressed by Sergio’s alleged credentials, the complainant contracted him to manage and secure gold transactions in Africa. Believing Sergio was a licensed professional, the complainant paid an initial signing bonus of USD 50,000 on August 29, 2023, followed by two subsequent payments of USD 15,000 each in January and February 2024.
A Web of Deception in Nairobi
Upon arriving in Nairobi, Sergio introduced the victim to several accomplices in an elaborate scheme. These included Caden Gebhard, another U.S. national posing as an active-duty soldier with the 19th Special Forces Group, and Eric Kalala Mukendi, a Congolese national allegedly representing the gold seller.
The victim was further deceived into signing a Sales and Purchase Agreement with a company known as AERO Logistics at a meeting held at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Nairobi’s Hurlingham area. The agreement involved the purchase of 2,820 kilograms of gold.
Between March 31 and May 30, 2024, the complainant paid a total of USD 1,271,200 to facilitate the transaction through his company, AURUMSIC ONE LLC. Despite the significant payments, no gold consignment was ever delivered.
Legal Proceedings and Bond Terms
Sergio pleaded not guilty to all charges during his court appearance. The Milimani Law Courts set his bond at Ksh. 10 million, with a requirement for one Kenyan surety. Pretrial proceedings are scheduled for January 23, 2025.
Authorities are actively pursuing other individuals suspected of being involved in the scam, as investigations continue.
Public Caution on Fraudulent Transactions
The DCI has warned the public, particularly individuals engaged in high-value transactions, to exercise caution and perform thorough due diligence before committing to deals. The agency emphasized that fraudsters often employ convincing tactics and establish intricate networks to appear credible.
This case has highlighted the growing sophistication of international scams, particularly those targeting lucrative markets like gold. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and verifying the authenticity of all parties involved in high-stakes deals.
Fraud in Context
Gold scams have become increasingly prevalent in Kenya, with fraudsters exploiting the country’s status as a hub for regional trade. These schemes often involve elaborate setups, including fake documentation, staged meetings at reputable locations, and the use of accomplices posing as influential figures.
For the victim in this case, the experience underscores the dangers of trusting appearances without concrete verification. The use of high-profile venues and the introduction of seemingly legitimate players added a veneer of credibility that ultimately proved deceptive.
As the case against Sergio unfolds, it is expected to shed light on the operations of similar scams, potentially leading to further arrests and legal action.
For now, the message from authorities is clear: remain cautious, verify credentials, and seek professional advice before entering into any high-value transactions.
