Two men were arrested on Sunday evening in Kajiado after attempting to fraudulently acquire 6,000 litres of diesel worth Ksh 1.2 million from a local petrol station. The suspects, identified as Boniface Karanja, 32, and Daniel Kimani, 54, were caught in the act at Sajjy Petrol Station in Bisil township, Oloililai Sub-County.
The duo arrived at the petrol station around 4 p.m. in an Isuzu NPR tanker, posing as legitimate customers. They confidently claimed to have wired Ksh 1.2 million to the station owner’s bank account and were ready to collect the fuel. Their calm demeanor and constant phone calls gave the impression of genuine business dealings, leading the pump attendant to begin fueling their vehicle.
However, after dispensing about 100 litres, the attendant became suspicious and decided to verify the payment with his employer. His concerns were confirmed when his boss reported that no such transaction had been made or authorized. Realizing they were being duped, the attendant discreetly signaled his colleagues, who quickly restrained the suspects and called the police.
Officers from the local police station arrived at the scene to find Karanja and Kimani already secured by the station staff. They were immediately taken into custody, and their vehicle, bearing registration number KCC 312G, was impounded as evidence.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had traveled from Nairobi and were part of a larger fuel theft syndicate targeting petrol stations in small towns. Authorities believe the duo may have executed similar scams in other locations and are currently expanding their probe to track down other members of the criminal network.
This incident highlights the importance of vigilance among business owners and their employees. The quick thinking of the pump attendant prevented a significant financial loss and helped law enforcement apprehend the fraudsters. Local police have urged businesses, particularly fuel station operators, to remain alert and verify payments before dispensing large amounts of fuel.
As investigations continue, the suspects are expected to face charges related to fraud and attempted theft. Authorities are also calling on anyone who may have fallen victim to similar scams to report to the police for further action.
