Detectives in Kilimani have apprehended two individuals accused of orchestrating a sophisticated cryptocurrency fraud scheme that left a Chinese national Ksh6.5 million poorer.
According to a statement released by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Friday, February 28, the suspects, Benson Macharia and Robinson Okwemo Nyandoro, posed as cryptocurrency exchange experts to lure and defraud their victim.
How the Cryptocurrency Scam Unfolded
The fraudulent transaction took place on February 20, 2025, at Rose Gardens in Kileleshwa. The duo allegedly convinced the victim that they could facilitate a seamless cryptocurrency exchange. However, their true intentions soon became clear.
During the transaction, Nyandoro allegedly seized the victim’s cash and made a swift escape through a backdoor, disappearing with a carrier bag full of money. Meanwhile, Macharia remained behind, reassuring the victim that the exchange was ongoing but was delayed due to supposed network issues.
As minutes turned into hours, the victim’s suspicions grew, ultimately prompting him to report the scam at Kileleshwa Police Station.
Arrest and Court Proceedings
Upon receiving the report, detectives launched an investigation that quickly led to Macharia’s arrest. He was arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kibera on February 25, where he pleaded not guilty. The court granted him bail of Ksh1 million with a surety of a similar amount.
Meanwhile, authorities intensified their search for Nyandoro, who was later tracked down and arrested at The Hub Karen on February 27. Following his arrest, a search of his residence at KMA Estate, Lang’ata, led to the recovery of Ksh500,000, believed to be part of the stolen cash.
Nyandoro was arraigned in the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kibera, where he also pleaded not guilty. He will be detained at the Industrial Area Prison pending a bond determination hearing scheduled for March 4, 2025.
A Cautionary Tale for Cryptocurrency Users
The DCI concluded its statement with a stern warning against falling prey to fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes.
“Clever schemes may dazzle, but detectives have proven they’re always a step ahead. Stay vigilant, and let this serve as a caution about the perils of blind trust in the murky world of cryptocurrency.”
Authorities urge the public to verify the credibility of cryptocurrency dealers and remain cautious when engaging in high-value transactions. Investigations into the case are ongoing, with law enforcement determined to recover the remaining stolen funds.
