DCI probes rising crimes linked to dating apps as new scams target Kenyans

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,'' reads the statement in part. Surge in Violent Robberies Linked to Online Dating EncountersThe Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) wishes to alert members of the public regarding a disturbing rise in violent robberies originating from interactions on online dating platforms, where unsuspecting... - DCI KENYA (@DCI_Kenya) November 13, 2025 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. They also urged the public to choose safe, public spaces such as cafes, restaurants, or shopping centers, and to avoid meetings in private residences. 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. "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. Detectives launched investigations and, acting on forensic leads, they apprehended Samira and one of her accomplices, Paul Webster Mangeni, aka Paulo

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DCI probes rising crimes linked to dating apps as new scams target Kenyans

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