MOMBASA, Kenya — Detectives in Nyali have arrested a suspected conman accused of swindling unsuspecting travellers by advertising fake Airbnb apartments in Mombasa, bringing relief to several holidaymakers who had reportedly fallen victim to the scheme.
According to investigators, the suspect had been targeting Kenyans searching for short-stay rentals online, using attractive property listings and convincing communication to lure them into paying for non-existent accommodation.
In a case reported on December 1, a Nairobi resident planning a family getaway came across an apartment advertised as “Brima Mangu Apartment 2B,” purportedly located along the Mombasa shoreline.
The photos shared by the alleged host, identified as Brian Masika, depicted a well-furnished holiday home and helped seal the deal at Sh6,000 per night.
Believing the offer was legitimate, the holidaymaker paid Sh24,000 for four nights through a paybill number provided by Masika. But on arriving in Mombasa on December 4, he was unable to reach the supposed host, leaving him stranded without accommodation.
Nyali-based detectives launched a manhunt after the complaint was filed, relying on forensic digital trails to track the suspect. Masika was later arrested in his hideout and remains in custody as officers process him ahead of arraignment.
The incident highlights a recurring trend in coastal holiday destinations, where fraudsters exploit increased travel during festive seasons. Authorities say scammers often use stolen photos, fabricated listings, and temporary communication lines to deceive travellers, making verification difficult for those unfamiliar with the region.
Under Kenyan law, obtaining money by false pretences is an offence punishable by imprisonment, and investigators have indicated that additional charges may be preferred if more victims come forward.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has urged members of the public to remain vigilant when booking accommodation online, advising travellers to cross-check property details, verify hosts through reputable platforms and avoid payments made outside official channels.
