Gold Scam Suspects Arraigned in Nairobi Court

NAIROBI, Dec 14 – Four individuals accused of defrauding a Niger businessman of USD 100,000 were arraigned at Milimani Law Courts today, facing charges of conspiracy to defraud and forgery. Susan Wanjeri Kogi, Elvis Muga Ouma, Nazlin Karim Rahimbux, and Hubbard Kanyago Ndong’o were arrested on Wednesday, December 11, following an investigation by the DCI Operation Support Unit.

The suspects allegedly posed as Customs officials to scam the businessman, who was expecting to transport 100kg of gold from Mali to Dubai. The victim, whose company operates from Dubai, reported losses exceeding USD 5 million from February to December this year, aimed for gold purchase, clearance, and transportation.

The fraudsters initially informed the businessman that the gold was confiscated by Nairobi Customs officers, leading him to pay an additional USD 100,000 to DARDESSA Logistics Limited, purportedly holding the consignment. After receiving payment, the scammers attempted further extortion when the businessman arrived in Kenya, prompting him to report the scam.

The suspects were apprehended in various parts of Nairobi in a coordinated police operation and were brought to court today. They pleaded not guilty and were released on a bond of Sh 500,000 or a cash bail of Sh 200,000. Their next court mention is scheduled for January 21, 2025.

The police are warning businesspersons to remain vigilant against organized fraud, particularly in dealings that involve significant sums across international borders.