Detectives from the DCI Nairobi Regional Office have arrested Abbas Bardu Omuyoma, alias Ishmael, in connection with a gold scam that defrauded a Canadian investor of USD280,000 (Sh36 million).
The Gold Scam
According to police, the elaborate fraud was executed with the help of an accomplice still at large. The suspects allegedly promised the investor 550 kilos of gold nuggets and bars supposedly sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Canadian investor, convinced he was entering a legitimate deal, transferred USD280,000 via USDT (Tether cryptocurrency). However, no gold was ever delivered.
How Ishmael Was Nabbed
Following a formal complaint filed on September 1, 2025, DCI launched intensive investigations. Forensic leads led detectives to Ishmael, who was arrested along Dennis Pritt Road in Nairobi on September 16, 2025.
Police confirmed that the suspect will be arraigned in court on Wednesday, as detectives continue to pursue his accomplice.
Ongoing Investigations
The DCI has urged the public, especially foreign investors, to exercise caution and verify the authenticity of gold dealers in Kenya to avoid falling victim to similar scams.
