NAKURU, Kenya – Fourteen suspects have been arrested in Nakuru over alleged cybercrime activities targeting travellers through fake online bus ticket websites, with police recovering 25 mobile phones and other items believed to have been used in the scam.
The suspects were apprehended during a joint operation involving detectives from the Banking Fraud Investigations Unit (BFIU) and officers from Nakuru Police Station.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the operation was conducted on Wednesday, August 19, in the Pangani area of Nakuru Township.
Detectives reportedly found the suspects inside a room where they were allegedly conducting online fraud operations.
“The raid unfolded in the Pangani area of Nakuru township, where the suspects were found in a room in the midst of their illicit online scamming operations,” the DCI said.
Fake bus ticket websites
Investigators allege that the suspects had established fake websites purporting to offer online bus ticket booking services.
The DCI identified the websites as Zain Coach, Harmain Coach and Habesh Coach, saying they were allegedly used to lure unsuspecting travellers into paying for bus tickets that did not exist.
The alleged scheme targeted travellers looking for the convenience of purchasing bus tickets online.
“Investigations revealed that the suspects had created fake websites, including Zain Coach, Harmain Coach, and Habesh Coach, which they use to scam unsuspecting travellers into a trap,” the DCI said.
The agency added that victims were allegedly left counting losses after sending money through the fraudulent platforms.
The investigation is expected to establish the number of people who may have fallen victim to the alleged scheme and the total amount of money lost.
Police recover 25 phones
During the raid, detectives seized 25 mobile phones, 16 SIM card plates and 10 SIM cards.
The items were taken into police custody and secured as exhibits as investigators continue tracing the alleged cybercrime network.
The large number of mobile devices recovered is expected to form part of the evidence investigators will examine as they seek to establish how the alleged operation was organised and whether the suspects were working with other individuals.
The arrests come amid growing reliance on online platforms for travel bookings and payments, creating opportunities for fraudsters to impersonate legitimate transport companies and exploit customers searching for tickets.
Suspects face possible charges
The 14 suspects remain in police custody as investigators complete the processing of the case ahead of their expected arraignment.
The DCI said the seized devices and SIM-related materials would remain secured as exhibits in the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have continued to warn members of the public to exercise caution when making online payments, particularly when booking transport services through websites whose authenticity has not been independently verified.
Travellers are encouraged to confirm that they are dealing with a legitimate bus company and to use official websites or verified booking channels before making payments.
