The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has sounded the alarm over a growing trend of violent robberies linked to online dating platforms and social media.
In a statement issued on Thursday, November 13, the DCI revealed that criminals are increasingly using dating apps to lure unsuspecting individuals into fake romantic or friendly engagements.
Once trust is established, the victims are invited to meet in unfamiliar or isolated locations, where they are ambushed, robbed, and in some cases, physically assaulted.
DCI Raises Red Flag Over Rising Robberies Stemming From Online Dating Apps. Photo: Courtesy.
According to DCI, both Kenyan citizens and foreign nationals have fallen prey to these schemes after being deceived into believing they were meeting genuine online connections.
Many of these interactions ultimately end in violent attacks, highlighting the escalating danger associated with online dating scams.
The DCI has urged the public to be cautious when using online dating platforms, warning against sharing personal or financial information with people met on the internet.
The agency noted that fraudsters often create emotional connections to exploit victims.
Kenyans were advised to verify the identity of anyone they interact with online and to be wary of individuals who seem too perfect or inconsistent.
The DCI further encouraged the public to meet new contacts only in safe, public places such as cafés or shopping centers, and to avoid private or secluded locations.
It also urged individuals to inform trusted friends or family about their plans before meeting someone known only online.
