Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has sounded a stern warning to fraudsters exploiting desperate job seekers, ordering the immediate arrest of individuals selling fake job application documents in Mombasa County.

Speaking during a government-led overseas job recruitment drive in Ukunda, Mutua condemned the racket preying on vulnerable youth hoping to work abroad.

“It is heartbreaking that some people are making money by deceiving our young people with fake documents. I have instructed the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to move swiftly and arrest those responsible,” Mutua declared.

His directive comes amid a surge in demand for overseas job opportunities, particularly in Dubai, where the government recently secured 3,500 slots for the Coast region. Of these, over 800 youth from Kwale County are expected to benefit, landing positions in hospitality, delivery services and logistics.

Mutua also cautioned outbound workers to uphold discipline and avoid confrontations in their host countries. He revealed that 15 Kenyans were deported recently for allegedly participating in illegal protests abroad.

“Going abroad is not just an opportunity to earn—it’s a responsibility. I urge our youth to be ambassadors of Kenya by showing respect for local laws and avoiding trouble,” he said.

Local leaders present at the event backed the CS’s directive and praised the recruitment initiative, noting it would not only offer meaningful employment but also curb youth-related crime in the region.

Last week, the government launched a fresh recruitment campaign offering 2,000 job opportunities in Dubai. The initiative is part of broader efforts to address unemployment and empower Kenyan youth through international job placements.

With the government ramping up employment efforts and cracking down on fraud, many young Kenyans are hopeful for a fairer, safer path to economic empowerment abroad.