Nairobi, Kenya – August 12, 2025 — Detectives from the Central Police Station in Nairobi have arrested seven suspects accused of producing and distributing fake US dollars in Ngara. The high-stakes operation has once again exposed the scale of Kenya’s counterfeit currency networks.
Details of the Ngara Raid
Police identified the suspects as:
- Manyara Aroon Nicas – Tanzanian national
- Abbott Antony – Congolese national
- Mongele Wambura – Kenyan national
- James Ngugi – Kenyan national
- Justus Alubokho Opulu – Kenyan national
- Mary Mumbi – Kenyan national
The arrests followed a coordinated raid at Travellers House in Ngara. Officers recovered:
- Thirty-six bundles of fake US currency
- Two plastic replicas resembling dollar notes
- Black paper cut to the size of currency
- Chemicals and tools believed to be used in the counterfeiting process
According to the Kenya Police Service, the counterfeit notes were intended for circulation, potentially causing significant financial damage to businesses and individuals.
More Suspects on the Run
Investigators believe more suspects are still at large. Police say efforts to track down these individuals are ongoing.
If convicted, those arrested could face up to 12 years in prison under Kenya’s Penal Code.
Counterfeit Currency in Kenya
This Ngara bust is the latest in a wave of fake currency seizures. In recent years, police have dismantled sophisticated counterfeiting syndicates operating across Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu.
Earlier this year, DCI detectives in Marereni intercepted suspects with fake euros and dollars in a separate operation.
Kenya’s Anti-Counterfeit Authority has warned that counterfeit currency remains a persistent economic threat.
Police Urge Public Vigilance
Authorities are urging the public to be cautious when handling large sums of money and to verify the authenticity of notes at Central Bank of Kenya branches or licensed banks. Members of the public are also encouraged to report suspicious dealings through the Fichua kwa DCI anonymous tip system.
