Four suspects have been arrested in Nairobi after a group posing as the “Nyamakima Business Community” allegedly descended on foreign-owned businesses in Nyamakima area, demanding hundreds of thousands of shillings under threats of closure.
The suspects are alleged to have been part of a group of about 30 people led by their ring leader Runnalice Nyambura Nganga, which on September 7, 2026, visited several businesses operated by foreign nationals.
At one shop the group demanded to inspect the company’s business permit, KRA compliance certificate and directors’ details.
They reportedly ordered the immediate closure of the premises over the alleged lack of the documents, or demanded Sh300,000 to allow the business to continue operating.
The group later proceeded to another electrical appliances outlet, where they allegedly demanded a further Sh200,000.
The incidents were promptly reported to police, triggering swift intervention by officers where four suspects were subsequently arrested.
The suspects, Peter Macharia Gatene, Runnalice Nyabura Nganga, Lawrence Ireri Karani and Josephat Mburu Kamau are currently in custody undergoing processing pending arraignment.
Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing to establish the full extent of the alleged extortion scheme and identify any other persons involved.
