DCI Launches Crackdown on Goons, Scammers Ahead of 2027 Polls

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has stepped up measures to address security concerns in Nairobi as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.

In an update on Sunday, October 4, the DCI said measures are being implemented under the multi-agency security framework as agencies seek to create an environment that will support a free, fair and credible election.

"As the nation prepares for the 2027 General Election, security agencies under the multi-agency framework continue to put measures in place to ensure a safe and secure environment conducive to a free, fair, and credible election," the agency said.

The DCI said it continues to play a key role in Nairobi in preventing and investigating crime as security agencies intensify preparations ahead of the polls.

"The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) remains an important player in the Nairobi region in executing its constitutional mandate of preventing and investigating crime," the agency added.

According to the DCI, under the leadership of the Regional Criminal Investigations Officer (RCIO), Setim Kandie, the DCI has put in place measures to tackle emerging and persistent security challenges across the Nairobi region.

The security concerns being addressed include goonism, misinformation and disinformation, as well as different forms of robbery, including phone snatching and motor vehicle theft.

The DCI is also targeting the 'kazi majuu' scams, which have continued to pose a security and public safety concern.

"While addressing the media in Nairobi, the RCIO assured Nairobi residents of an open-door policy in addressing security concerns. He encouraged members of the public to continue sharing information on issues affecting their security to facilitate timely and appropriate police action," the agency further said.

This comes days after the DCI warned members of the public against falling victim to fraudulent schemes involving forex trading, cryptocurrency, and other forms of digital financial scams.

In an update on Monday, September 28, the agency cautioned that some individuals use social media to display lavish lifestyles and purported profits as a way of attracting unsuspecting members of the public into fraudulent investment schemes.

"We are live with this story of Masharp Boys/Girls. These people live deep inside a world of Forex storms, Crypto shadows, Arbitrage games, sure-bet betting, Trading, Glowing Wallets, Telegram signals and the almighty USD that remains the real flex," the update read.

The DCI further raised concerns over the display of what appears to be large profits on online dashboards, noting that such displays can be used to create an impression of financial success and attract potential victims.

"Dashboards are usually blazing with phantom profit. Like really, who does show off? Even you, do you announce your salary online? Meanwhile, their lifestyle drips premium cognac, Belair Rosé showers, thick Shisha fog, cash stacks, luxury cars (mostly hired), nights out, and international trips on their profile," the update added.

According to the DCI, behind the apparent displays of wealth, some individuals are involved in criminal activities targeting people through digital platforms and deceptive financial schemes.

The agency warned that the schemes may involve fake investment platforms, phishing links, fabricated trading dashboards and wallets, identity fraud and deepfake technology.

"Yet the other side is heavy: trafficking, online scams, selling air, phishing links, fake dashboards, fake wallets, identity fraud, deepfakes and Washwash.

"They call it smart money or arbitrage, but behind some of that flex is social engineering, fake platforms and people being washed. Many fall. Others drag people down with them," the update further read.