The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested a married couple accused of orchestrating a Ksh20 million overseas jobs scam that preyed on unsuspecting Kenyans.
In a statement issued on Thursday, January 23, Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua confirmed that detectives apprehended Vincent Omondi Oyugi and his wife, Rachael Njoki Kariuki, after an intensive manhunt.
The two are alleged to be the key figures behind fraudulent recruitment conducted through Zawadi Jobs Abroad Ltd, in collaboration with Glorivin International, Gig Connect, and Taushi Tours and Travel.
Police Arrest Married Couple Linked to Ksh20 Million Jobs Abroad Scam. Photo: Courtesy.
The couple is accused of collecting money from job seekers under the promise of employment abroad, only for the opportunities to fail to materialize.
Mutua praised the DCI for the arrests, noting that the suspects had attempted to evade law enforcement despite earlier public instructions for them to surrender.
According to the CS, the arrests followed a prolonged pursuit after the suspects ignored a directive issued a day earlier, choosing instead to go into hiding before they were finally tracked down by detectives.
Mutua sought to reassure Kenyan youth that the government’s Kazi Majuu Programme remains operational and credible, stressing that authorities are intensifying efforts to protect job seekers from fraudulent recruiters.
He reiterated the government’s firm commitment to eliminating rogue agents and individuals who exploit the desperation of young people seeking employment abroad, noting that safeguarding youth and providing legitimate job opportunities remains a top priority of the administration.
The Labour CS further warned that investigations into overseas jobs scams are ongoing, adding that those involved in defrauding Kenyans should expect the full force of the law as enforcement agencies tighten the noose on fraudsters.
