In a bizarre twist of crime and deception, detectives in Kenya have arrested two men who disguised themselves as attractive female masseuses to lure unsuspecting clients online, only to rob them at knifepoint.
The suspects, identified as Alex Mugo Wachira and Simon Chomba Mbogo, were apprehended by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in the Kasarani area of Nairobi. According to a statement released by the DCI on Thursday, April 17, 2025, the duo had been operating a fake online massage service targeting unsuspecting individuals in need of relaxation.
But what started out for their victims as an attempt to unwind with a professional massage quickly turned into a nightmare.
The suspects advertised “premium massage services” online, using photos of attractive women to attract their victims. Their posts promised relaxation, pampering, and a luxurious spa experience. Once a client showed interest, they would be invited to a private residence along Lumumba Drive in the Kasarani area.
According to the police, one such victim, who remains unnamed for security reasons, responded to one of these advertisements. Believing he was meeting two professional female masseuses, he went to the given location expecting a normal massage session.
However, shortly after the session began, the men revealed their true identities. Pulling out knives, they threatened the victim and forced him to transfer 280,000 Kenyan shillings (about ₦2 million) to a phone number controlled by the suspects. They also collected his phone, wallet, and other valuables before throwing him out of the house.
The victim reported the incident to the Kasarani Police Station, leading to a full investigation by the DCI.
Following the report, detectives launched a manhunt and traced the suspects using forensic leads, including mobile phone tracking and financial transaction records. The two were eventually found relaxing at a chilling spot near Kamiti prison area — ironically, not far from where they now face the prospect of being imprisoned.
At the time of their arrest, they were reportedly enjoying themselves, likely spending proceeds from their criminal operation. The police did not recover the stolen funds at the point of arrest but confirmed that investigations are ongoing to trace the money and link the suspects to other possible victims.
“The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing processing. They will be arraigned in court soon to face charges of robbery with violence and impersonation,” the DCI said in its statement.
This case highlights a growing trend of online scams and impersonation across East Africa and beyond. With the increase in internet access and mobile technology, criminals are exploiting digital platforms to lure, defraud, and sometimes harm unsuspecting individuals.
In recent years, several countries, including Nigeria, have recorded similar cases of fake service providers using online ads to commit crimes. From false real estate agents to phony investment schemes, cybercrime is becoming more common and sophisticated.
Kenya, known for its advanced mobile banking system and digital services, has also become a hotspot for tech-related fraud. The DCI has repeatedly warned citizens to be cautious of too-good-to-be-true online offers and to verify identities before meeting strangers or sending money.
The news of the arrest sparked a wave of reactions on Kenyan social media, with many users expressing disbelief and amusement over the strange method used by the suspects.
“This is the definition of ‘things are not always as they seem,’” one Twitter user wrote.
Another user posted, “Imagine going for a massage and ending up at knifepoint. The streets are wild.”
Despite the humorous angle some took online, law enforcement officials emphasized that the matter is serious, especially as it involved armed robbery and digital fraud.
“These suspects used deception and violence. Their actions were criminal and dangerous. We are committed to ensuring they face the full weight of the law,” said a DCI officer involved in the case.
Law enforcement authorities are urging the public to be vigilant when dealing with unknown individuals, especially those met online. They advise that people should:
– Verify the identity and address of service providers before meeting in person.
– Avoid private or isolated meeting locations, especially for first-time interactions.
– Inform a trusted friend or family member before going to an unfamiliar place.
– Refrain from carrying large amounts of money or valuables to such appointments.
– Report any suspicious activities to the police immediately.
If convicted, the suspects could face serious legal consequences. In Kenya, robbery with violence is a capital offence, often carrying heavy penalties, including life imprisonment or even the death sentence in extreme cases.
The charges of impersonation and fraud also carry jail terms and fines, depending on the severity and the number of victims involved.
As of now, the DCI has not ruled out the possibility that the suspects may have defrauded other victims using similar tactics. The agency is calling on anyone who may have fallen victim to the same scheme to come forward and assist with the investigation.
While technology has brought convenience and opened doors for new business opportunities, it has also created space for crime and deception. The arrest of Alex Mugo Wachira and Simon Chomba Mbogo serves as a reminder to always be cautious when dealing with strangers online — especially when it comes to personal services and financial transactions.
Authorities have promised to continue the crackdown on cybercrime and impersonation schemes across the country. The public is encouraged to remain alert, report suspicious activity, and rely on verified platforms when seeking professional services.
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