DCI Warns of Rising Violent Robberies Tied to Online Dating Platforms.
They also advised the public to cross-check identities and avoid trusting overly polished or too-perfect profiles, which often signal fraudulent activity.
The DCI further urged the public to take immediate action the moment they feel their lives are in danger; they should leave the place immediately, they advised, and report suspicious cases they encounter. photo/Courtesy.
By Ruth Sang
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations DCI has issued a strong warning to the public following an increase in violent robberies that target people who connect with strangers through online dating applications and social media sites.
According to a statement released by the agency, criminals have increasingly turned to digital platforms to identify and lure unsuspecting victims—including both Kenyans and foreigners—into carefully planned traps. The DCI explained that perpetrators often create misleading profiles, initiate conversations, build trust, and later convince their targets to meet in private or unfamiliar locations.
The investigative agency expressed concern that many of such online interactions, which start off as friendly or romantic exchanges, eventually lead victims into dangerous encounters. “Many of the individuals tricked into these meetings end up being ambushed, robbed, and in some instances physically assaulted,” the DCI noted.
The authorities let out that these fraudsters do not bank solely on physical assault but also on emotional manipulation to get personal information and financial details. It is through this feigned affection that fraudsters will actually get confidential information, which will lead to identity theft, financial loss, or further intimidation.
With the increased cases, DCI encouraged Kenyans to exercise maximum caution when relating to people met on dating apps or social networking sites. It reiterated that one of the initial steps toward security is protecting personal information. Individuals were advised to avoid sharing sensitive information—especially financial details—with people they have not met or are unable to verify.
The DCI further urged online users to look out for inconsistent profiles, suspicious behavior, or stories that do not add up. They also advised the public to cross-check identities and avoid trusting overly polished or too-perfect profiles, which often signal fraudulent activity.
Those who would want to meet a person they have been interacting with online, however, were advised by the agency to choose safe and public venues. These include places like cafés, restaurants, and busy shopping centres, while private residences and isolated areas are to be avoided. They also encouraged individuals to let a trusted friend or family member know about their meeting plans, share their live location if possible, and ensure their phone is fully charged on such outings. The DCI further urged the public to take immediate action the moment they feel their lives are in danger; they should leave the place immediately, they advised, and report suspicious cases they encounter. The agency reiterated its commitment to curbing the rising trend and called on the public to be vigilant, ensure their safety, and report any related incidents without delay.
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