NAIROBI, Kenya — The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has warned motorists about increasingly sophisticated tactics allegedly being used by car theft syndicates to gain access to vehicles.
In an advisory issued on Monday, October 5, the DCI said seemingly ordinary social encounters and business opportunities could be used as traps to lure unsuspecting vehicle owners.
“In a growing trend of sophisticated car thefts targeting innocent motorists, car thieves are becoming more sophisticated,” the agency said.
According to the DCI, criminals are adopting different approaches to get close to vehicle owners, gain their confidence and eventually take control of their cars.
BnB Dates And Fake Deals
The agency listed several tactics that motorists should watch out for, including car-hire scams, date bait and what it described as “mchele babes”.
It also warned against fake buyers, fake importers and fake passengers who may use seemingly legitimate transactions to gain access to vehicles.
Bogus business deals were similarly identified as a potential avenue through which criminals can lure motorists into vulnerable situations.
The DCI urged motorists to exercise caution when dealing with strangers met through social media or online platforms.
Fake Accidents And Breakdown Traps
The agency also warned about tactics designed to stop or distract motorists.
These include staged accidents and fake vehicle breakdowns, where suspects may create situations intended to force a driver to stop.
Parking-side interference and other distraction tactics can similarly be used to create an opportunity to access a vehicle.
Motorists were also cautioned about individuals posing as legitimate tow operators and cases involving vehicle tampering.
Keyless Theft Also A Threat
The DCI further highlighted keyless and relay theft as emerging methods that can allow criminals to target vehicles without using conventional approaches.
The agency said the tactics and individuals involved may change, but the objective of organised car theft remains the same.
“The intention remains the same: get close, gain your trust, take your car,” the DCI said.
The warning comes days after the agency cautioned members of the public about fraudulent schemes involving forex trading, cryptocurrency and other digital financial scams.
The DCI has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and verify people and transactions before allowing strangers access to their vehicles or personal information.
