NAIROBI, Kenya — Detectives have arrested a police recruit constable accused of defrauding a member of the public of Sh687,000 by falsely promising to secure employment with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), in a case that has renewed scrutiny of recruitment-related fraud in the security sector.
The suspect, identified as Kipkoech Isaac, was arrested by officers from Kayole Police Station following investigations into an alleged employment scam reported in November 2025, according to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Investigators say Kipkoech approached the complainant on November 12, 2025, claiming he could facilitate the issuance of an official KDF recruitment letter in exchange for Sh700,000. The victim later transferred Sh687,000 to the suspect.
However, after receiving the money, Kipkoech allegedly cut off all communication with the complainant and failed to deliver the promised employment letter, prompting the victim to report the matter to the police.
Arrest at police training institution
Following the complaint, detectives launched a manhunt that led them to the National Police College, Embakasi A Campus, where the suspect was traced and arrested.
The DCI said Kipkoech is currently in police custody, undergoing processing ahead of his arraignment in court.
Authorities have not disclosed whether the suspect acted alone or whether additional arrests are expected as investigations continue.
Renewed warning on recruitment scams
The case highlights persistent concerns over fake recruitment syndicates exploiting desperate job seekers by falsely claiming influence within the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, and other security agencies.
Both the KDF and the National Police Service have repeatedly warned members of the public that recruitment into security agencies is free, merit-based, and conducted through officially announced channels.
Under Kenyan law, obtaining money by false pretences constitutes a criminal offence under the Penal Code, attracting custodial sentences upon conviction.
The DCI urged members of the public to avoid intermediaries claiming to secure jobs within government institutions and to report any suspicious recruitment demands to the nearest police station or through official reporting channels.
Authorities have reiterated that no individual has the authority to sell or guarantee positions in the KDF or other state agencies.
Kipkoech is expected to be arraigned in court once investigations are complete.
