Nairobi, Kenya | Monday, July 29, 2025
Detectives from Kenya’s Operation Support Unit (OSU) have arrested four individuals allegedly involved in a high-level gold scam targeting international investors. The suspects were apprehended during a carefully coordinated raid in Gigiri, one of Nairobi’s upscale suburbs.
Suspects Nabbed in Elaborate Sting Operation
The arrested individuals have been identified as:
- Patroba Odhiambo Tobias
- Isaac Forkay Sleyon
- Omong Ekoume Louis
- Wadja Bangsi Tang
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the suspects were cornered at a residence located along Whispers Avenue. The property reportedly served as their base of operations for fraudulent activities involving fake gold deals.
🔗 Learn more about previous gold scams uncovered by DCI Kenya
Gold Smelting Equipment, Stamps, Fake Documents Seized
A thorough search of the premises led to the recovery of several items that reinforced detectives’ suspicions:
- A gold smelting machine
- Rubber stamps with company names including:
- Alaska Express Freight Group Ltd
- Longcrane Logistics Limited
- Kakan Traders and Company
- Multiple plastic security seals
- A weighing machine
- Dozens of forged documents, some bearing East African Community stamps
The cache indicates the suspects were replicating legitimate documentation to deceive foreign clients.
📰 For more local crime news, visit our Crime & Justice section on Sauce.co.ke
Linked to USD 37,500 Fraud Involving Canadians
Initial investigations show that Alaska Express Freight Group Ltd—one of the names stamped on seized documents—has been tied to a recent case where two Canadian nationals were defrauded of USD 37,500 (Ksh 4.8 million). The complaint helped inform Monday’s arrest operation.
Part of Larger Crackdown on Gold Scams
This raid is part of a broader crackdown led by the OSU targeting syndicates that have tarnished Kenya’s image in the global gold trade.
Just last week, another suspect, Tim Orao Shikalo, was arrested for his alleged role in scamming a foreign investor of USD 265,200 (approx. Ksh 38 million). Authorities have been closing in on the networks believed to be facilitating these international scams.
🧾 Related story: Police bust Ksh 38M gold fraud racket
Suspects Awaiting Arraignment
The four suspects are currently in custody and will be arraigned once investigations are complete. Law enforcement officials have urged the public, especially potential foreign investors, to consult with Kenya’s Ministry of Mining and verify documentation before engaging in any precious metal transactions.
🔍 For investment verification in Kenya, visit the Ministry of Mining official site
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