Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kilimani have arrested two suspects accused of defrauding a Kenyan out of Sh1.1 million in an alleged vehicle importation scam. The suspects are currently in police custody awaiting their court appearance.
According to police reports, the incident occurred on May 27, 2022, when a man, posing as a salesperson at a motor shop along Ngong Road, reportedly promised to deliver two vehicles a Probox Extra and a 14-seater Toyota Hiace 7L for a total of Sh2.9 million. The victim, enticed by the offer, made an initial deposit of Sh1.1 million before the suspect allegedly vanished without delivering the vehicles.
The authorities launched an investigation into the matter, utilizing forensic intelligence to track the suspect to an apartment in Athi River. During the arrest, detectives recovered several SIM cards believed to be linked to the fraudulent scheme. The suspect subsequently led investigators to his accomplice in Makongeni, Thika, where another SIM card was found. This card was allegedly used to receive Sh550,000 from the victim, further implicating the second suspect in the scam.
The two suspects have been placed in police custody as investigations continue. Authorities believe the duo may be part of a larger syndicate specializing in defrauding unsuspecting buyers through fake vehicle importation deals. Detectives are working to establish whether there are additional victims who have fallen prey to similar schemes.
Cases of fraudulent vehicle sales have been on the rise in Kenya, with scammers exploiting the high demand for imported cars. Authorities have warned prospective buyers to exercise caution, urging them to conduct due diligence before making payments for vehicle purchases. Buyers are advised to verify the legitimacy of dealerships and avoid making payments without proper documentation.
The arrest of these two suspects marks a significant step in the crackdown on fraudsters in the vehicle importation sector. As the case proceeds to court, law enforcement officials remain committed to dismantling criminal networks engaged in fraudulent activities, ensuring justice for victims and deterring future scams.
