By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, April 23 ,2026 - What began as a routine land purchase for a Kenyan living abroad ended in a fraud investigation after a key detail failed to check out at Ardhi House.
Detectives have arrested a couple in Ruiru accused of obtaining Sh2.4 million through a suspected fake land sale in Mwihoko, an alleged scheme uncovered only when officials attempted to verify ownership.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the transaction was initiated by a woman based in Denmark, who had asked her sister in Kenya to help her buy land. The property appeared legitimate, and the payment was made.
But when the parties visited Ardhi House to complete the transfer, officials discovered the land was registered under a different owner.
“That discovery raised red flags and prompted further investigations,” the DCI said.
The case was handed to the agency’s Land Fraud Investigation Unit, which traced the transaction and linked it to the two suspects, both secondary school teachers.
After completing investigations, the file was forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), which approved charges of obtaining money by false pretences.
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The suspects have since been arrested and are being held pending arraignment in court.
Investigators say the case highlights a familiar pattern in Kenya’s property market, where unsuspecting buyers lose money through fake titles, double sales or impersonation.
The DCI is urging the public to verify land ownership through official channels before making payments.
“This case serves as a stark reminder… highlighting the importance of vigilance in real estate transactions,” the agency noted.