Security Guards Among 7 Arrested For Defrauding Foreigners Ksh2.85 Billion

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Wednesday, December 27 arrested several suspects involved in a Ksh2.85 billion mega gold scam targeting two Malaysian nationals.

DCI revealed in a statement that its Operations Support Unit (OSU) arrested the Nairobi-based suspects and recovered multiple tools of trade involved in the failed fraud scheme.

Having received intelligence reports through the Kilimani Sub-County Criminal Investigations Officer on the scamming deal planned against the two foreign men, the OSU deployed a surveillance team after the two victims jetted into the country.

A box containing gold and tools recovered in the Ksh2.85 billion scam by DCI on December 27, 2023. /DCI

"Reportedly, the scammers using Rock Africa Minier company had contacted the complainants as of 19th October 2023 through a social media platform. The suspects had alleged to transact with them 500 kg of Gold at USD 19 million equivalent to Ksh2.85 billion," the DCI stated in part.

In the deal, the complainants had already sent USD 6,350 (Ksh990,600) to members of the gang based in Cameroon who referred the two to their Kenyan accomplices.

The scammers were then trailed as they picked up the two foreigners from their hotel along Argwings Kodhek road in Kilimani using a Toyota Noah.

They were taken to an office in a private house along Mageta Road within Kileleshwa where the surveillance team followed closely before the main gate was shut locking them out. 

"As the sleuths stealthily gained entry into the compound, some suspects jumped over the fence at the back side of the compound, leading to a chase that saw 7 of them arrested including two escapees.

"The suspects who included two G4S security guards are; Didier Muke (a Congolese with a pending case and passport deposited in court), Brian Otiende, Patrick Otieno, Joshua Ngandi, Charles Vincent Njerenga (whisked from a getaway bike and in hospital), Mark Kabete (G4S) and Ken Kiboi (G4S)," added the DCI.

The scene was processed and several exhibits were recovered including metallic boxes, 84 gold-coated metallic bars, smelting tools, computers, documents and stamps for Ace Point International Limited and assorted G4S uniforms.

Also recovered and believed to be proceeds of crime include the following motor vehicles; a white Toyota Noah, a black Toyota Crown and a white Mercedes Benz.

Furthermore, a white Toyota G-Touring and a Toyota double cab branded in the colours of the G4S security firm were also recovered.

All exhibits have since been secured as the suspects are being processed for arraignment on Thursday, December 28 where they will be expected to answer to charges of fraud in accordance with the law.