Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested Brian Otiende Anyanga, suspected leader of a Nairobi land fraud syndicate, on December 14. The arrest followed a two-week manhunt after the capture of his accomplice, Lawrence Martins Ochieng. The gang allegedly issued fake lease certificates under the guise of working at the Nairobi County Lands Registry, defrauding victims of substantial amounts, including one case where Sh553,000 was lost before the scam was intercepted.
According to the DCI, the suspect was previously out on bond for a gold scam and will be arraigned again on December 16. The agency recently cautioned landowners, especially those pursuing joint ventures, about the risks of fraudulent activities. These scams often target underdeveloped parcels of land, luring victims into agreements before issuing fake documents.
Ongoing investigations have seized several suspicious land documents, which are being scrutinized to identify potential involvement by officials at the Lands Registry. The DCI continues to warn landowners to exercise vigilance and verify documents thoroughly to avoid falling victim to such schemes.
