Detectives have cracked down on a high-profile gold scam, arresting five suspects accused of defrauding two foreign businessmen of USD 120,000 (approximately Ksh.15.5 million). The investigation, spearheaded by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), has unearthed a web of deceit involving counterfeit gold deals, unlicensed firearms, and elaborate setups.
The Suspects and Their Alleged Roles
The DCI identified Lamarca J. Benjamin, also known as Morlon Jean Emmanuel, as the ringleader of the scheme. Lamarca is reportedly the CEO of AFREX Bridge Connections Ltd, the company central to the scam.
The other suspects include:
- Samson Kibet Sirkoi
- Lucy Gitonga
- Rose Kambua
- Justine Adhiambo
How the Fraud Unfolded
The scheme was set in motion when the complainants were approached by an intermediary, who claimed Lamarca had 550 kg of gold stored at a warehouse at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The gold was said to be awaiting clearance upon payment of USD 120,000.
The promise of a lucrative deal lured the victims, but suspicions arose, leading them to file a complaint at Wilson Airport Police Station on January 29, 2025.
Key Arrests and Evidence Recovered
Detectives moved swiftly, conducting raids at various locations:
- AFREX Bridge Connections Ltd. Offices
- Arrested: Lucy Gitonga and Rose Kambua
- Seized evidence linked to the scam.
- Mount Kenya Wildlife Estate, Nanyuki
- Arrested: Lamarca J. Benjamin and Justine Adhiambo
- Riverside Pearl, Kileleshwa, Nairobi
- Discovered items at Lamarca’s residence, including:
- Two Glock pistols and 96 rounds of 9mm ammunition
- 14 smoke grenades
- Three 9mm tracer bullets
- Bulletproof vest
- Expired mineral licenses
- Stamps and seals used in the scam
- Discovered items at Lamarca’s residence, including:
Law enforcement also seized a vehicle with the registration number KCW 880M, tied to the operation.
Firearms and Licensing
The Firearms Licensing Board confirmed that Lamarca was not a licensed firearm holder. This raises concerns about the ease with which unlicensed individuals can acquire dangerous weapons.
Legal Proceedings
- Lucy Gitonga and Rose Kambua have already been arraigned in court, with custodial orders granted for further investigation.
- The remaining suspects, including Lamarca, are set to be arraigned on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
Broader Implications
The case highlights the prevalence of scams targeting foreign investors and the lengths criminals go to create convincing setups. It also underscores the importance of due diligence when engaging in high-value transactions, particularly in industries like gold trading, which are prone to fraud.
