DCI Arrests 14 Scammers In USD 1.3M Fake Gold Swoop

Detectives have cracked what they describe as a gold scamming network in Nairobi and arrested 14 suspects within Lavington area.

The DCI said in a statement the arrest followed weeks of manhunt and surveillance to locate their operational base.

DCI boss Mohamed Amin said the suspects are linked to over $1.35 million (Sh174m) gold scandals in the country.

He said detectives made the arrest after they raided a house located along Chalbi Drive within the upscale estate following forensic-led intelligence.

According to Amin, the house is where an American businessman was conned of cash on diverse dates between March and May, 2024, in a transaction relating to the smelting of a purported load of 2,820kg of gold.

They were arrested at the House No. 53 located along Chalbi Drive within Lavington area of Nairobi occupying various offices and posts. The suspects include; Ronald Osonga Khejiria, Emmanuel Wafula Thatcher, Willy Kiplimo Metto, Sharon Achieng Ouma, Tracey Achieng, Luck Bahaya Butelezi, Willis Odhiambo Koyi, Erina Notoila Gitau, Edgar Wafula Odinga, Patrick Kariuki Mahugu, Denis Osoo, Boniface Nemesis Waswa, John Michugu Gathaira and Eliud Wachira Githaiga, all found therein were arrested.

“Also seized from the premises were assorted documents, files, stamps and seals used to scam the complainant and other victims that ever fall for the scammers’ con tricks,” Amin said.

He said two other suspects Eric Kalala Mukendi and Antonucci Sergio Patrick linked to the gold scamming racket had been arraigned over the same case, with the first mention coming up on January 23, 2025, at Milimani Law Courts.

“The exhibits have been documented as suspects undergo processing ahead of their arraignment, Monday,” the top detective said.

Meanwhile, detectives in Mombasa have arrested two more suspects linked to the infamous Panga Boys gang.

Amin said they were arrested in separate operations conducted on Thursday evening and Friday morning.

The arrest now brings to five the total number of suspects linked to the panga-wielding gang that has been accused of giving Mombasa residents sleepless nights, mostly within Kiembeni and Kadzandani areas.

The other three were arrested on Thursday following an operation led by DCI detectives drawn from their headquarters in Nairobi.

The DCI said the first two suspects were nabbed at Mwatamba 2 stage in Kiembeni while the third suspect was arrested within Kadzandani while in possession of a knife and two face masks.