Co-Accused in Sh150 Million Land Fraud Case Re-Arrested as DCI Uncovers Fresh Evidence

Nairobi, Kenya – August 6, 2025

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has re-arrested one of the key suspects in a high-profile Sh150 million land fraud case, following the emergence of fresh documentary and forensic evidence linking him to the disputed property transaction.

The suspect, who had previously been released on bond, was apprehended on Tuesday afternoon by detectives from the Land Fraud Investigations Unit (LFIU) in Nairobi’s Kilimani area. His arrest comes amid intensified efforts by the DCI to dismantle well-organized criminal networks that have infiltrated the country’s land registration and transfer systems.

Background: A Web of Deceit Over Prime Land

The case revolves around the fraudulent sale of a prime parcel of land in Nairobi’s Ruaraka area, allegedly orchestrated by a syndicate that includes rogue lawyers, surveyors, and land officials. The victim — a Nairobi-based businessman — claims he was duped into purchasing the land using forged title deeds and manipulated records from the Ministry of Lands.

Initial investigations revealed that the same property had been sold to multiple buyers using duplicate titles, a tactic commonly used in complex land scams. The suspects are believed to have used fake company seals, impersonated legal representatives, and colluded with officials in Ardhi House to push the transfer through.

The suspect re-arrested this week is accused of acting as a broker and presenting himself as the lawful agent of the registered landowner, who has since come forward to dispute the sale.

New Evidence: Forensic Links and Bank Trail

According to sources close to the investigation, detectives recently obtained digital communications, bank transfer records, and forensic handwriting analysis that directly implicate the suspect in forging critical documents and facilitating fraudulent payments.

DCI spokesperson Esther Wanjiku confirmed that the new evidence not only strengthens the prosecution’s case but also opens the door to additional charges, including conspiracy to defraud, obtaining money by false pretenses, and impersonation.

“The DCI is committed to ensuring that land fraud cartels are exposed and prosecuted without fear or favour,” she said, noting that the investigation now includes leads that may implicate public officers.

Looming Prosecutions and Systemic Reforms

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is expected to file amended charges before the Milimani Law Courts later this week. Legal analysts suggest the case could become a test for Kenya’s capacity to enforce land justice, especially in urban areas where land values are skyrocketing and fraudulent activity is rife.

The case also comes at a time when the Ministry of Lands is implementing its ambitious digital land registry (ArdhiSasa) to curb title duplication and improve transparency. Critics, however, say the system rollout has been slow and inconsistently applied across counties — leaving gaps that fraudsters continue to exploit.

Public Urged to Verify Land Deals

Authorities have once again urged Kenyans to conduct due diligence before engaging in land purchases, including searches at both the central registry and local land control boards.

“This case underscores how sophisticated these scams have become. Verification is no longer optional — it’s essential,” said a legal expert from the Kenya Land Alliance.