Police Detain 7 Suspects Connected to Sh2.85 Billion Syndicate

In a major crackdown on a Sh2.85 billion gold syndicate in Kileleshwa, seven suspects have been apprehended by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

The individuals allegedly masqueraded as businessmen, claiming they could supply up to 500 kilograms of gold to two Malaysian nationals.

According to the DCI, the suspects engaged in a transaction involving 500 kilograms of gold, with the value set at USD 19 million, equivalent to Sh2.85 billion.

The complainants had reportedly sent USD 6,350 to members of the gang based in Cameroon, who then referred them to their Kenyan counterparts.

Detectives from the DCI Investigations Support Unit meticulously tracked the suspects, observing their movements as they picked up the two foreigners from a Nairobi hotel.

The group then proceeded to a private residence along Mageta Road, where they cunningly closed the main gate, locking out the Malaysians.

The agency, led by Amin Mohammed, revealed that the fraudsters had utilized a company to establish contact with the complainants, initiating communication from October 19, 2023, through a social media platform.

As the investigators discreetly entered the compound, some suspects attempted to escape by jumping over the backside fence, resulting in a pursuit that led to the arrest of seven individuals, with two managing to evade capture.

The operation yielded several exhibits, including metallic boxes, 84 gold-coated metallic bars, smelting tools, computers, documents, and stamps related to Ace Point International Limited. Additionally, assorted G4S uniforms and five motor vehicles were recovered during the operation.

This significant crackdown highlights the intricate nature of gold-related scams and the importance of international cooperation in combating such fraudulent activities.

The recovered evidence will likely play a crucial role in building a case against the arrested individuals, shedding light on the methods employed by the syndicate.