Detectives have foiled a multi-million-dollar gold scam in Nairobi, arresting two key suspects behind an elaborate “get-rich-quick” fraud scheme that targeted an American businesswoman.
The masterminds, identified as Michael Otieno Onyango and Andrew Clifford Otieno, allegedly attempted to defraud the victim of USD 5.6 million (approximately Ksh. 723 million) under the guise of selling 70 kilograms of gold.
According to investigators, the suspects lured the investor with promises of a lucrative gold deal. However, the woman grew suspicious and insisted that the gold be tested and verified by officials from the Ministry of Mining before any payment was made.
While the scammers initially agreed, their plan quickly fell apart when they failed to appear for the scheduled gold testing. The businesswoman then decided to cooperate with detectives and set up a second meeting to expose the fraudsters.
On the agreed day, one of the suspects’ associates picked her up from Yaya Centre, claiming they would have coffee before finalizing the deal. Instead, she was driven to House 27, Rose Villa Estate, where the conmen awaited her.
When negotiations began, the scammers tried to convince her to release the money, but their growing suspicion led them to abruptly flee in a blue Mazda CX-Z (KDP 336R). Detectives immediately launched a pursuit, intercepting the getaway car and arresting both men.
A search of their hideout uncovered two smelting machines and nineteen smelting moulds, exposing the scale of their illegal operation.
The suspects are currently in custody as detectives complete investigations before their arraignment in court.
Authorities have urged members of the public, especially foreign investors, to conduct due diligence before engaging in gold or precious metal transactions in Kenya.
