Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have nabbed a suspect linked to a brazen theft incident, where a passenger lost over Ksh500,000 after boarding a vehicle falsely claiming to be a taxi.
The incident, which took place on the night of August 8, saw the victim and his friend seek transport after leaving a social joint in Nairobi's Lavington area.
While trying to order a taxi via an app, they were approached by someone posing as a driver who offered to take them to their destination at a reasonable price. Trusting the offer, the pair took the 'taxi' to a short-stay rental in the area.
Immediately after dropping them off, the driver disappeared with the victim's phone and it was later discovered that he used the stolen device to transfer over Ksh500,000 from the victim's accounts to several different mobile money and bank accounts.
According to the DCI, the suspect proceeded to deactivate his accounts, a move which further complicated recovery efforts.
Investigations were soon launched, with detectives tracking down the vehicle believed to have been used in the scheme. The suspect was found to be using fake registration plates as authorities also discovered a spare set in his possession.
The presence of fraudulent plates raised red flags regarding the vehicle's potential links to other unsolved crimes in the city.
During the arrest, officers also recovered other items including assorted mobile phones, multiple SIM cards and a sisal rope. These items are believed to be key accessories in engaging in fraudulent activities.
The DCI is urging members of the public to exercise caution when hailing transport services, especially from individuals offering deals outside of verified digital platforms. Passengers are advised to confirm vehicle details and driver identity before entering any vehicle.
The suspect has since been taken to DCI Dagoretti, pending arraignment.
Cases of fraud using small vehicles have been prevalent in recent months, with criminals devising fresh ways to dupe unsuspecting Kenyans. One common robbery tactic involves the use of fake plates, making it difficult for investigators to trace the vehicle used in the crime.
Cab users are often advised to always seek services from renowned taxi apps, while also ensuring the vehicle's plates correspond with the one indicated on the app.
