by Hillary Lisimba
Betty Karimi, a Nairobi woman, has been arrested for allegedly swindling numerous Kenyans by promising them lucrative overseas job opportunities. For years, she managed to evade arrest by colluding with rogue police officers who would warn her of impending captures.
The breakthrough came when Detective Jane Mugoh teamed up with Mr. Chris, the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at KICC Police Station, to coordinate the operation that led to her arrest. Karimi is said to be linked to multiple tours and travel companies and is suspected of being part of a cartel involved in fraudulent job recruitment schemes.
According to Mugoh, Karimi had been collecting money from desperate job seekers, falsely assuring them of employment opportunities abroad. Despite previous attempts to apprehend her, she often escaped due to insider tips. To combat this, undercover agents worked closely with the OCS, ultimately leading to her capture.
The arrest raises serious concerns about corruption within the police force, with allegations that some officers may have aided Karimi. Mugoh has called on the International Police Organization (Interpol) and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to assist in the investigations.
Currently in custody, Karimi is expected to face fraud-related charges and allegations of obtaining money by false pretenses. Authorities are urging anyone else who may have fallen victim to similar scams to report the incidents to the police.
