DCI Issues Caution to Kenyans After Suspected Online Accommodation Fraudster Arrested
It was here that detectives managed to follow the trail using forensic tools and digital tracking methods until they caught up with the suspect in his hideout.
The other person introduced himself as Brian Masika, purportedly the owner and manager of the apartment. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations DCI has raised an alarm to the general public following the arrest of a man believed to be behind a series of online accommodation scams targeting holidaymakers visiting Mombasa by detectives in Nyali Sub-county.
The suspect, whose name was not immediately disclosed by investigators, is accused of swindling a Nairobi-based traveller who had been making arrangements for a family getaway at the Coast. According to preliminary reports, the victim came across an apartment listing advertised as “Brima Mangu Apartment 2B” while in search of holiday accommodation on December 1, 2025. He then contacted a contact provided on the platform to make further inquiries.
The other person introduced himself as Brian Masika, purportedly the owner and manager of the apartment. After multiple conversations, the two are reported to have agreed on the rental charges, with the suspect offering to let the unit at Sh6,000 per night. Convinced that the offer was legitimate, the victim is said to have sent Sh24,000 through mobile money to a till number provided by the suspect, enough for four nights.
Trouble started when the Nairobi family travelled to Mombasa after three days. Upon arrival in the coastal city, they reportedly tried to contact the said apartment owner but found that he had blocked all communication channels as their calls and messages went unanswered, with the contact lines previously used not going through. Realizing they had been duped, they quickly reported the matter to the authorities.
The report was followed by an in-depth investigation and a manhunt launched by DCI officers. It was here that detectives managed to follow the trail using forensic tools and digital tracking methods until they caught up with the suspect in his hideout. He was arrested and taken into custody for further questioning.
The DCI said the man will be taken to court and charged with online fraud and obtaining money by false pretence. The agency has also cautioned the public on the need to verify accommodation providers, especially since many Kenyans are getting ready for holiday travel during the festive period. In a statement, the DCI reminded the public to exercise caution on online booking, saying that some of the offers were traps orchestrated by criminals. It added, “Not every attractive deal you see online is genuine. Always double-check before sending money.” It urged travellers to use trusted platforms and confirm the legitimacy of the advertised properties.
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