Detectives in Kiambu have apprehended seven suspects in connection with a sophisticated scheme involving drugging, sim-swapping, and stealing Ksh 250,000 from a male victim. The incident reportedly took place on Thursday night at an entertainment joint along Thika Road.
The Scheme Unveiled
The suspects, comprising four men and three women, allegedly orchestrated the crime by targeting the victim while he was enjoying drinks at the establishment. According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the group worked in unison to drug the victim, steal his mobile SIM cards, and drain his mobile money and bank accounts.
Moses Munene Mwangi and Lephines Mwangi Mwai are accused of orchestrating the sim-swapping process, while Maureen Wambui Wanjohi, Purity Wamaitha Njuguna, and Jemimah Muiya Mitau allegedly spiked the victim’s drinks. Isaac Kanini Mugo and James Omwenga are believed to have facilitated the unauthorized transfers of funds.
A Calculated Move
“In a well-calculated scheme targeting a seemingly well-off victim, Munene and Mwangi fraudulently registered several SIM cards used for swapping the victim’s accounts. Meanwhile, the women involved cajoled him into consuming spiked drinks,” read part of the DCI statement.
The suspects transferred money from the victim’s mobile accounts, including Mpesa and a Money Market Forex account, leaving him without access to his funds.
Swift Action by Detectives
Following the victim’s report to the Serious Crimes office at DCI Headquarters, detectives launched an operation that swiftly led to arrests. Munene and Mwangi were apprehended in Kahawa West, while the three women, connected to Ksh 110,000 of the stolen money, were tracked down in Githurai 44.
Subsequently, Mugo and Omwenga were arrested in Ruiru, Kiambu, where they were allegedly involved in transferring more funds from the victim’s accounts.
Awaiting Justice
The seven suspects are currently being held at Kiamumbi Police Station as they await arraignment in court. The DCI has urged members of the public to remain vigilant while socializing and to report any suspicious activity immediately.
