Detectives in Kenya have arraigned US national Antonucci Sergio Patrick at the Milimani Law Courts over a multi-million dollar gold scam involving a fraudulent transaction exceeding $1.35 million.
Sergio faces charges of conspiracy to commit a felony and obtaining money by false pretenses after being arrested upon arrival in Kenya from Dubai.
The Fraudulent Scheme
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Sergio allegedly posed as a former banker, investor, and legal consultant specializing in high-risk markets avoided by most US businesses.
In July 2023, Sergio met the victim, also a US national, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Impressed by Sergio’s purported credentials, the complainant hired him to oversee gold transactions in Africa.
The scheme escalated when payments began in August 2023, starting with an initial signing bonus of $50,000, followed by $15,000 payments in January and February 2024.
During a visit to Nairobi, the victim was introduced to accomplices, including:
- Caden Gebhard, who posed as an active-duty US soldier.
- Eric Kalala Mukendi, a Congolese national claiming to be a licensed gold exporter.
At a meeting held at Four Points by Sheraton in Hurlingham, Nairobi, the complainant—through his company AURUMSIC ONE LLC—signed a contract with AERO Logistics to purchase 2,820 kilograms of gold.
Between March and May 2024, the victim transferred $1,271,200 for the deal. However, no gold was delivered, prompting the victim to report the scam to authorities.
Court Proceedings and Bond Terms
Appearing before the Milimani Law Courts, Sergio pleaded not guilty to the charges. He was granted a Ksh 10 million bond, with one Kenyan surety. The case is scheduled for mention on January 23, 2025, for pretrial proceedings.
Authorities Warn the Public
The DCI has confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and additional suspects involved in the scheme are being pursued. The agency also urged the public to exercise caution and conduct thorough due diligence when engaging in high-value transactions to avoid falling victim to similar scams.
