A man who hoped to register for the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme lost Ksh251,000 to a group of fraudsters posing as government officials. According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the four suspects were caught after executing a well-organized con using fake SHA identification cards, branded clothes, and a luxury vehicle to deceive their victim.
The suspects are now in police custody and are expected to face fraud charges. The incident has sparked public outrage and raised concerns about the rising trend of fake SHA officials taking advantage of unsuspecting citizens trying to join the new health scheme.
Fraudsters Posing as SHA Officials Caught After Stealing Ksh250,000
According to the DCI, the victim was approached by four individuals who claimed to be legitimate SHA officers conducting a registration drive. They presented fake SHA name tags, T-shirts, and membership cards to gain the victim’s trust.
The unsuspecting man was persuaded to hand over his phone so they could “complete his registration.” Within minutes, his device went off, cutting communication with the supposed officials.
When he later visited his SACCO, he received devastating news—all his savings, totaling Ksh251,000, had vanished. Investigators later traced the stolen funds to mobile numbers connected to the suspects.
Police Recover Fake SHA Items and Toyota Prado
Following the report, officers from Marimanti launched a swift operation that led to the arrest of the four suspects. During the raid, police discovered several fake items that the criminals had used to appear authentic.
Among the recovered items were SHA-branded T-shirts, name tags, membership cards, and informational leaflets. Detectives also found several SIM cards believed to have been used to transfer the stolen money.
A white Toyota Prado, which the suspects allegedly used during their operations, was also seized. Police said the vehicle had an extra number plate hidden inside, suggesting the group used it to conceal their movements during scams.
Detectives Pursue More Suspects Linked to Fake SHA Officials
The DCI confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine whether the suspects are part of a larger network. Detectives believe other individuals could be involved in similar scams across the country.
Authorities are now urging Kenyans to remain cautious when approached by people claiming to represent SHA. The DCI emphasized that legitimate SHA officers carry official documentation and never ask for money or personal devices during registration.
“Members of the public should verify the identity of any SHA official by contacting the Social Health Authority offices directly or checking through official government platforms,” the DCI stated.
This case highlights a growing challenge for law enforcement as fraudsters increasingly exploit the rollout of government programs to target innocent citizens.
Kenyans have been encouraged to report any suspicious individuals or registration activities to the nearest police station to help prevent similar crimes.
