Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Nairobi Regional Office have arrested Abbas Bardu Omuyoma, alias Ishmael, in connection with a multi-million shilling gold scam that defrauded a Canadian investor of USD 280,000 (approx. Ksh42 million).
The suspect was apprehended along Dennis Pritt Road in Nairobi, following weeks of forensic investigations and surveillance.
His arrest comes after the victim lodged a formal complaint on September 1, 2025.
The Gold Scam
According to investigators, Ishmael and an accomplice who is still at large lured the investor with promises of supplying 550 kilograms of gold nuggets and bars allegedly sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Believing he was entering into a legitimate business deal, the Canadian investor transferred the equivalent of USD 280,000 via USDT (Tether cryptocurrency). However, the gold consignment never materialised, and efforts to recover the funds proved futile.
The Arrest
Detectives launched an intensive probe, leveraging forensic leads to track Ishmael’s movements. On Monday, they intercepted and arrested him, bringing to an end weeks of evasion.
Currently in custody, Ishmael is undergoing processing pending his arraignment in court.
Hunt for Accomplice
DCI officers confirmed that a manhunt is underway for Ishmael’s accomplice, who is believed to have played a central role in the elaborate con.
The DCI has also urged members of the public and foreign investors to exercise caution when engaging in gold transactions in Kenya, warning that fraudsters continue to exploit unsuspecting victims using fake documents and false promises of Congolese gold.
