Detectives have arrested eight suspects allegedly linked to a sophisticated SIM swap fraud scheme that resulted in the theft of more than Sh1.2 million from an M-Pesa operator in Marsabit County.
In a statement posted on its official X account on Saturday, July 4, 2026, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the suspects were apprehended following investigations into the alleged fraud, which exploited mobile money and banking systems.
According to the DCI, the suspects were intercepted at the Merille Barrier in Marsabit South while travelling in a white Toyota Probox, registration number KDN 708Q, after detectives received intelligence regarding their alleged criminal activities.
“Detectives have arrested eight suspects linked to a sophisticated SIM swap scheme that allegedly siphoned more than Sh1.2 million from an M-Pesa operator in Marsabit,” the DCI said.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects allegedly posed as customers at an M-Pesa shop in Marsabit Town, where they are believed to have deceived the operator before carrying out a SIM swap.
The DCI stated that the fraudulent SIM replacement enabled unauthorized access to the complainant’s bank account, resulting in the loss of more than KSh1.2 million.
“The fraudulent SIM swap enabled unauthorised access to the complainant’s bank account, resulting in the theft of over KSh1.2 million,” the agency said.
The eight suspects were identified as Benrodgers Kyalo, Evans Mbweli, Patrick Vundi, Emily Mwende, Josephine Kasiva, Pius Mwenda, Alex Stima, and Jane Mueni.
They were escorted to Marsabit Police Station alongside the vehicle used during the operation and remain in custody as investigations continue.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has urged M-Pesa agents and members of the public to exercise caution and avoid handing over SIM cards, mobile phones, or M-Pesa handsets to customers.
“Fraudsters often work in groups, creating distractions while executing their scheme. If a customer makes unusual requests or insists on handling your phone, treat it as a red flag,” the DCI warned.
The agency encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities through its anonymous reporting channels as part of ongoing efforts to combat cyber-enabled financial crimes.
