Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have dismantled a notorious online shopping fraud syndicate in an intelligence-led operation, arresting three suspects linked to a scheme that defrauded unsuspecting victims.
The operation followed a report made by a victim who lost Ksh 105,000 on 29 March 2026 through a deceptive Facebook page operating under the name “Jumia Shop KE.” The page posed as a legitimate online marketplace, advertising household items at heavily discounted prices to lure buyers.
According to the report, the victim contacted the sellers via the listed WhatsApp number and after selecting an item, was issued with a paybill and account number for payment. He transferred the full amount in good faith, but the promised delivery was never made.
Acting on the complaint, DCI detectives launched a targeted intelligence-led operation that led them to an apartment in the OJ area of Ruiru along the Eastern Bypass. In a coordinated raid, officers arrested three suspects believed to be behind the fraudulent operation. The suspects were apprehended while aboard a maroon Mazda Demio, registration number KDT 486Y.
The suspects identified as Samson Ondieki Omboga, Dionicious Omonyi Oirere, and Schwarz Migiro Otete are currently in police custody pending further processing and legal action.
Members of the public are urged to exercise caution when conducting online transactions. They are advised to verify the authenticity of online sellers and avoid making payments to unverified accounts.
