Kenyan Police Arrest Three Nigerians Over Alleged Cyber Fraud and Immigration Violations

Kenyan security agencies have arrested three Nigerian nationals suspected of orchestrating cyber fraud operations and residing illegally in the country. The arrests followed a well-coordinated operation involving police and immigration officers in Mwea, Kirinyaga County, on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

The suspects Peter Chukwujekwu, Alazor Chukulute Sunday, and Nnalue Chiagozie Samwel were apprehended inside a rented apartment in Mwihoko Village, after concerned residents alerted authorities to strange nocturnal activities and frequent visits by unfamiliar individuals. Acting on the tip-off, law enforcement officials launched a discreet surveillance operation, which culminated in a dawn raid that exposed what investigators described as a “fully equipped cybercrime hub.”

During the raid, detectives recovered a significant haul of digital and financial items, including 21 mobile phones, 79 SIM cards, a Dell laptop, and multiple credit and debit cards from various banks. Preliminary analysis of the seized devices revealed connections to several suspicious online transactions and potential phishing schemes targeting individuals both within and outside Kenya.

Authorities disclosed that the trio had initially entered the country legally but had overstayed their visas, making their continued stay unlawful. Immigration officials further confirmed that none of them possessed valid work permits or business licenses, despite claiming to be “running an online business.”

According to a senior police source, the group is believed to be part of a larger cross-border cyber fraud syndicate operating across East and West Africa. Investigators are now collaborating with international cybercrime units to trace digital footprints, financial trails, and possible accomplices in Nigeria and neighboring countries.

“The operation was the result of close cooperation between security agencies and members of the public who refused to remain silent in the face of suspicious activity,” the source said. “We encourage citizens to continue reporting any unusual behavior in their communities to help us dismantle such networks.”

The suspects are currently detained at the Kirinyaga County Police Headquarters, where they are being interrogated. They are expected to face multiple charges, including cyber fraud, identity theft, illegal residence, and violation of immigration laws.

Kenyan authorities have intensified crackdowns on foreign nationals involved in online crimes amid a surge in digital scams targeting local financial institutions and unsuspecting citizens. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has reiterated its commitment to protecting Kenya’s cyber infrastructure and warned that both locals and foreigners found engaging in online fraud will face full legal consequences.