By Neville Oduor
In a significant victory for law enforcement, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has apprehended a notorious fraudster, Rev. Richard Macharia Njuguna, who allegedly swindled an unsuspecting Ethiopian refugee out of over Sh3 million.
The arrest, announced on June 11, 2025, marks a critical step in curbing fraudulent activities targeting vulnerable individuals in Kenya.
The suspect, affiliated with the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA) in Juja Farm, Thika South Diocese, was nabbed by the Nairobi Anti-terrorism Police Unit (ATPU) at Overstone Hotel in Ruiru.
According to the DCI, Macharia posed as an ATPU officer attached to the Directorate of Immigration Services, deceiving the victim between December 20, 2024, and February 12, 2025.
“He cunningly duped the refugee into believing he could facilitate the acquisition of Kenyan citizenship, fraudulently obtaining a total of Sh3,030,500,” the DCI statement revealed.
Following his arrest, a search of Macharia’s Kahawa West residence and vehicle uncovered incriminating evidence, including wooden stamps and documents allegedly linked to various institutions such as the Chief Magistrate in Nairobi and the Kenya Immigration Office at JKIA.
These findings underscore the sophistication of the scam. “Detectives searched Njuguna’s residence recovering a variety of documents and wooden stamps allegedly belonging to several institutions,” the DCI noted.
Currently, Macharia remains in custody pending arraignment, with the seized items and his vehicle held as exhibits.
This operation highlights the ATPU’s commitment to protecting citizens from exploitation.
The case, initially reported at Capitol Hill Police Station, was transferred to ATPU for a thorough investigation, reflecting a coordinated effort to uphold justice.
As the investigation continues, the public awaits further updates, with many praising the DCI’s swift action.
“Justice delayed is justice denied,” said a humanitarian activist, urging continued transparency.
This bust serves as a deterrent to fraudsters and a testament to Kenya’s evolving security apparatus.