The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects behind a mega gold scam valued at over USD 1.3 million.
The arrest came after weeks of surveillance and relentless hunt for the operational base of the notorious city scamming ring.
Acting on credible forensic intelligence, DCI operatives traced the gang to the nerve center of its operations in the posh Lavington estate along Chalbi Drive.
It is here that the transaction and smelting of a purported load of 2,820kg of gold was executed on diverse dates between March and May, 2024.
Acting on forensic-led intelligence, the resilient detectives identified and raided the house where the transaction and smelting of a purported load of 2,820kg of gold was executed on diverse dates between March and May, 2024, a long con that left an American businessman poorer than he jetted the country.
Sleuths also disclosed that an American businessman who jetted into the country for the purpose of purchasing gold was swindled.
All fourteen suspects were found occupying different offices and posts withing House No. 53 located along Chalbi Drive and were taken in.
DCI identified the suspects as 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.
Items recovered during the raid
The raid also saw the sleuths recover key evidence that will be used in prosecuting the case.
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.
Meanwhile, the exhibits have been documented as suspects undergo processing ahead of their arraignment, Monday.
With several scams valued at billions, Nairobi quickly earned the tag of being the hub of fake gold scam.
DCI's war on fake gold scammers
Several suspects have been arrested over the years with the cases prosecuted in court over a long period of time.
Many victims await justice as the wheels of justice take its time to turn and with little to show for it in terms of conviction despite the multiple arrests.