The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has raised an alarm over the rise in violent robberies originating from online dating platforms and social media.
In a statement on Thursday, November 13, DCI said criminals are using dating apps to lure unsuspecting victims into fake romantic or friendly interactions.
The suspects then invite the unsuspecting victims to meet in unfamiliar locations, where they are robbed and, in some instances, physically assaulted.
“Victims, both citizens and foreign nationals, are often approached on dating apps or social media, cultivated into a false sense of trust, and subsequently invited to meet in private or unfamiliar locations.
“Tragically, these gatherings frequently culminate in ambushes, robberies, and, in some cases, physical assaults,” read part of the statement.
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DCI urged members of the public to exercise heightened caution when interacting on online dating platforms.
“To ensure your safety, it is crucial to protect your personal information. Avoid sharing any sensitive details, particularly financial information, with individuals you've only met online. Fraudsters are particularly skilled at creating emotional connections, which they then exploit to extract personal data that could lead to financial or personal harm,” DCI stated.
The investigative agency advised Kenyans to verify the individuals they interact with before placing their trust in them and to avoid those who appear too perfect or whose stories appear inconsistent.
DCI also urged the public to choose safe, public spaces such as cafés, restaurants, or shopping centers, and to avoid meetings in private residences
“When it comes to arranging in-person meetings, always choose safe, public spaces. Opt for well-lit locations like cafes, restaurants, or shopping centers for your first encounter. It is best to avoid private residences or secluded areas, as these can pose significant risks,” DCI stated.
Further, DCI encouraged Kenyans to inform trusted friends or family members about their whereabouts before meeting anyone known only through the internet.
“If you ever feel threatened or encounter suspicious behavior, disengage immediately and seek help. Don’t hesitate to contact the nearest police station or reach out to official channels for support. Reporting any suspicious profiles or threats can help protect others from becoming victims,” DCI added.
This comes days after detectives in Mombasa arrested a woman who lured a British national into her apartment in Nyali and staged a robbery against him.
In a statement on Tuesday, November 11, DCI said the suspect, identified as Samira Mumbi Kiarie, had wooed the Briton for months.
“The suspect, Samira Mumbi Kiarie, aka Samira, had been wooing the Briton for months on the net, charming him with promises of everlasting love.
“Blinded by affection, the man packed his confidence and visited her posh apartment in Nyali, oblivious that he was walking into a scripted heist,” DCI stated.
Barely minutes into the date, the door of the apartment burst open and two men stormed in, one claiming to be Samira's furious husband and the other flashing a fake police ID.
According to DCI, the alleged husband of Samira accused the British of wrecking his home while the fake police officer threatened to arrest him.
The foreigner was then coerced into transferring Ksh800,000 to mobile phone numbers provided by the gang.
“Once the cash landed, the trio calmly escorted their victim out before vanishing into Mombasa's humid night like ghosts after payday,” said the DCI.
Detectives launched investigations and, acting on forensic leads, they apprehended Samira and one of her accomplices, Paul Webster Mangeni, aka Paulo.
