Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested a Cameroonian national in connection with a fake gold scheme.
In a statement issued on Thursday, July 31, DCI noted that the suspect identified as Francis Talla Oufa, alias Allain, swindled a Canadian investor $618,000.
According to detectives, the scheme began in November 2024, when the victim was enticed into a lucrative deal involving the purchase of 250 kilograms of gold.
Foreigner connected to gold scam arrested. Photo: Courtesy.
The victim was still in Canada at the time.
Upon arrival in Kenya in April, the Canadian national was ushered into plush, high-end offices by an alleged business partner, an elaborate front designed to project the illusion of a thriving, legitimate gold enterprise.
The victim was then introduced to a network of well-rehearsed swindlers, who convinced him of the legitimacy of the deal.
The Canadian handed over the $618,000 before he realized that he had been conned.
Investigation was launched and, through forensic leads, trailed and arrested the suspect.
A search in the suspect’s vehicle and residence in Belfair Park, Dagoretti, led to the recovery of gold transaction-related documents and seals.
A staff card for Sunshine Minerals Ltd bearing the suspect’s name with the designation “Engineer Mining” was also recovered.
The detectives moreover seized two laptops, three mobile phones and other items linked to the scheme.
The suspect is currently in custody, undergoing processing before being arraigned in court.
