Four men linked to a suspected fake gold fraud syndicate in Nairobi have been ordered to remain in custody for two weeks while detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) pursue deeper investigations into the multi-million shilling scam.
The suspects — Patroba Odhiambo Tobias, Isaac Pokkey Sleyon, Among Ekoume Louis, and Bernard Wadja Bangsi — were arraigned before the Kibera Chief Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday following their dramatic arrest during a police raid in Westlands, Nairobi, on July 28, 2025.
Police Raid in Westlands Unmasks Alleged Fraudsters
According to an affidavit filed in court, detectives acting on intelligence reports stormed an office in Westlands where the suspects were allegedly conducting illegal gold trading. The raid led to the recovery of several exhibits believed to have been used to defraud unsuspecting investors.
Among the items seized were:
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Five mobile phones suspected to contain critical communication with victims,
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Gold smelting machines used to stage fake processing of the mineral,
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Counterfeit gold bars resembling genuine bullion,
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Forged documents purportedly issued by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA),
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Stamps belonging to various firms, and
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Assorted business cards linking the group to different companies.
Investigators believe the exhibits are key in unraveling the scale of the fraud and exposing how the suspects lured investors into parting with millions of shillings in the belief that they were purchasing legitimate gold consignments.
Court Grants DCI 14 Days to Finalize Investigations
During the arraignment, prosecutors argued that the suspects could not produce valid work permits or licenses authorizing them to engage in the gold trade. Authorities said this was a strong indicator that the group was part of a coordinated criminal enterprise targeting both local and international investors.
The prosecution requested the court to grant custodial orders to allow investigators more time to:
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Forensically analyze the recovered mobile phones,
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Trace money trails linked to the fraudulent transactions,
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Authenticate the seized documents, and
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Identify possible additional suspects and victims.
Kibera Chief Magistrate approved the application, directing that the suspects remain in police custody for 14 days while the investigations continue.
Fake Gold Syndicates Tarnishing Kenya’s Reputation
This latest case adds to the growing list of fake gold scams in Nairobi, which have repeatedly drawn both local and international attention. Fraudsters often pose as legitimate dealers, lure victims with forged documents such as mining licenses and KRA export permits, and stage elaborate schemes that mimic genuine business transactions.
Money is frequently routed through law firms or escrow accounts to lend credibility, while counterfeit gold bars are shown to convince investors of authenticity. In some cases, victims are even introduced to impostors posing as government officials to reinforce the illusion of legitimacy.
Analysts warn that the persistence of such fraud rings undermines Kenya’s international reputation as a regional hub for trade and investment. Governance experts have described the scams as part of a “well-oiled network” that thrives on weak enforcement, fake documentation, and intimidation of whistleblowers.
Ongoing Crackdown by DCI
The DCI has intensified its crackdown on fake gold cartels following several high-profile scams that have cost foreign investors millions of dollars. Detectives maintain that the Westlands arrests represent a breakthrough in dismantling a network that has been preying on unsuspecting individuals.
“The recovered exhibits will help us piece together the full scope of the scam and ensure the perpetrators face justice,” a senior officer familiar with the investigation said.
The four suspects will remain in custody until their next court appearance in two weeks, when prosecutors are expected to update the court on the progress of the investigation.
Conclusion
The detention of Patroba Odhiambo Tobias, Isaac Pokkey Sleyon, Among Ekoume Louis, and Bernard Wadja Bangsi highlights the scale of Nairobi’s fake gold fraud menace and the determination of law enforcement to curb the crime.
As the investigations continue, both local and international investors are being urged to exercise caution and verify all gold transactions through recognized and regulated channels.