Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested a couple linked to an alleged Ksh2.4 million land fraud targeting a buyer in Ruiru Sub-County.
The suspects, identified as Patrick Karimi Kamara and Alice Wanjiru Kanyoro, are accused of obtaining money by false pretences in a fraudulent property transaction involving land in Mwihoko.
According to investigators, the case was reported on behalf of a Kenyan woman based in Denmark, who had tasked her sister with purchasing a parcel of land on her behalf. The property, valued at Ksh2.4 million, was expected to be transferred legally upon completion of the transaction.
However, the deal took an unexpected turn during the final stages at Ardhi House, where officials discovered that the land in question was registered under a different individual and did not belong to the alleged seller.
The revelation immediately raised suspicion, prompting a detailed investigation by the DCI’s Land Fraud Investigation Unit (LFIU). Detectives launched a probe to establish how the transaction had been conducted and identify those behind the scheme.
Authorities say evidence gathered during the investigation pointed to a coordinated attempt to defraud the buyer through misrepresentation of ownership documents.
Upon conclusion of the investigations, the case file was forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), which approved charges against the two suspects.
Police confirmed that the suspects, both secondary school teachers, have since been arrested and are in custody awaiting arraignment in court.
The incident highlights the growing concern over land fraud cases, particularly those targeting individuals purchasing property remotely or through intermediaries.
Investigators have cautioned members of the public to exercise due diligence when engaging in land transactions, including verifying ownership records and conducting official searches before making payments.
Experts in the property sector say such cases underscore the importance of using verified channels and involving legal professionals to safeguard against fraudulent dealings.
The DCI has reiterated its commitment to cracking down on land fraud networks, warning that those involved in such schemes will face the full force of the law.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging potential land buyers, especially those in the diaspora, to remain vigilant and ensure all documentation is properly verified to avoid falling victim to similar scams.
