Detectives from Kilifi South and Nyali have successfully apprehended a suspected SIM-swap fraudster, Phyllis Njagi, aged 37, who is accused of targeting unsuspecting members of the public, particularly the elderly, under the pretense of conducting Social Health Authority (SHA) registration. The arrest was made during a meticulously planned joint intelligence-led operation at Kwa Chief in Mtwapa. This operation was initiated following numerous reports that a group of three individuals had been masquerading as government employees tasked with conducting SHA registration.
The fraudulent scheme reportedly spanned across several regions, including Mwea, Machakos, Kitui, Mwingi, and other areas. The suspects allegedly exploited the SHA registration exercise to extract personal information from their victims. This information was then used to facilitate SIM-card swaps, a tactic that allowed the fraudsters to gain unauthorized access to the victims’ mobile money accounts and other digital wallets. Once access was secured, funds were swiftly transferred to accounts controlled by the suspects, resulting in significant financial losses for the victims.
During the operation, Njagi was apprehended while driving a Mazda CX-5, registration number KDT 012M. The vehicle has since been impounded for further examination. However, her suspected accomplice, John Mutesa Mango, managed to escape during the operation and is currently at large. A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of several incriminating items, including five insurance certificates bearing the registration number KDT 012M, two duplicate insurance certificates for motor vehicle KDP 019N, three insurance certificates for motor vehicle KDS 150J, and two number-plate casings.
The detectives are now appealing to the public for assistance in identifying and locating Mango. Photographs of both Mango and the arrested suspect, Phyllis Njagi, have been released to aid in this effort. Authorities are also urging the public to exercise heightened vigilance when approached by individuals claiming to be government officials conducting SHA registration. They emphasize the importance of caution when sharing personal and mobile registration details to prevent falling victim to such fraudulent schemes.
This arrest highlights the ongoing battle against SIM-swap fraud, a crime that has become increasingly prevalent with the rise of mobile money services in Kenya. The authorities are committed to cracking down on such criminal activities to protect citizens and maintain the integrity of digital financial services.
