The Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) has announced the arrest of seven suspects involved in a mega-gold scam that targeted two Malaysian nationals.
DCI said the seven were arrested on Wednesday in Kileleshwa, Nairobi, while pausing as businessmen with the ability to supply up to 500 kg of gold that was worth KES 2.85 billion.
“The suspects had alleged to transact with them 500 kg of gold at USD 19 million, equivalent to KES 2.85 billion. In the deal, the complainants had already sent USD 6,350 to members of the gang based in Cameroon, who referred the two to their Kenyan accomplices,” the DCI said in a statement.
According to DCI, the scammers were trailed as they picked up the two foreigners from one hotel along Argwings Kodhek Road in Kilimani using a Toyota Noah and drove to a private house along Mageta Road before the main gate was shut, locking out the Malaysians.
“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 seven of them arrested, including two escapees,” said the DCI.
DCI further stated that the scammers used a company (Rock Africa Minier) to contact the complainants as of October 19, 2023, through a social media platform.
The suspects were identified as Didier Muke, a Congolese national with a pending court case, Brian Otiende, Patrick Otieno, Joshua Ngandi, Charles Vincent Njerenga, Mark Kabete (G4S), and Ken Kiboi (G4S).
Several exhibits were also recovered, including metallic boxes, 84 gold-coated metallic bars, smelting tools, computers, documents and stamps for Ace Point International Limited, assorted G4S uniforms, and five motor vehicles.
