Kenyan authorities have arrested a man accused of stealing over KSh 3.7 million (€25,000) from a tourist at the Maasai Mara Game Park.
According to kenyatimes.com, the tourist arrived in Nairobi on August 5, 2025, and travelled to the Mara the next day with his tour guide and an acquaintance.
The Greek national had met the tour guide, who identified himself as Jeremiah John, online. While at the game park, the man known as “Jeremiah” disappeared with the tourist’s three debit cards, a mobile phone, and a wristwatch.
Shortly afterwards, €25,000 was withdrawn from the tourist’s bank accounts. Later, investigations revealed that “Jeremiah John” was a false identity. Forensic analysis identified the suspect as Kenas Okello Oyugi. Detectives also recovered multiple mobile phones, a Seiko Crystal wristwatch, Ksh54,050 in cash, US dollars, and a brand-new Tour Trek bicycle believed to have been bought with the stolen funds.
“Through forensic analysis, detectives unmasked the suspect as Kenas Okello Oyugi, who was trailed and arrested at his hideout,” added DCI. Okello had reportedly posed as a friendly acquaintance to gain the victim’s trust before striking. Okello is being held at Central Police Station pending arraignment. DCI has stated that the theft was a calculated scheme, warning both local and international tourists to be cautious when interacting with strangers met online, especially before or during travel. Additionally, the authorities have also urged anyone with information on similar scams to report them immediately.
How to Protect Yourself from Conmen as a Tourist in Kenya
According to past travel advisories from the United Kingdom and the United States, it is important to verify identities before trusting anyone. Whether it is someone you meet online or in person, tourists should confirm who they are through official documents or trusted contacts. Additionally, tourists are encouraged to keep valuables and financial details secure, and to never share bank card PINs, passwords, or carry large sums of cash unnecessarily. Moreover, as a tourist, you should trust your instincts and act quickly. If something feels off, walk away and report it immediately to the police.
