DCI arrest fake police in Kilimani after allegedly swindling job seekers Sh2.5 million, accomplice escapes

A man accused of orchestrating an elaborate police recruitment scam that cost unsuspecting job seekers a total of Sh2.5 million has been arrested in Kilimani.

Detectives identified the suspect as Benedict Odeng'ero Wekesa, described as a smooth-talking fraudster who preyed on young people desperate to join the National Police Service.

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), at least three victims reported that Wekesa had promised them "guaranteed" recruitment slots in exchange for large sums of money.

Armed with forged appointment letters, the suspect allegedly convinced the victims that their positions were secured, prompting them to hand over the money.

The whole ordeal came to a halt when the victims realised the documents were fake and no such placements existed.

"Armed with forged recruitment letters, Wekesa convinced the victims to part with hefty sums of money, assuring them that their slots were secured in the service. By the time reality finally kicked in, a total of Sh2.5 million had changed hands, and the dreams of joining the service had vanished," said DCI.

Acting on the reports, detectives set up an operation that led to Wekesa's arrest at Sagret Hotel in Kilimani.

Officers who raided the premises recovered 20 additional fake recruitment letters, pointing to what investigators believe is a wider, well-coordinated fraud ring.

His alleged accomplice, however, fled moments before the officers moved in and is currently being sought.

Wekesa is now in custody and is undergoing processing ahead of his expected arraignment. Detectives say they are pursuing new leads to track down the accomplice who escaped.