NAIROBI, Kenya — Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested Francis Maina Ndegwa, a suspect in a land fraud case, after he failed to appear in court for plea taking.
Ndegwa was scheduled to appear at the Milimani Law Courts on February 19, 2026, to answer charges of fraudulently procuring a Certificate of Lease. His absence prompted the presiding magistrate to issue a warrant of arrest, which led to a manhunt and his subsequent apprehension.
Investigators allege that Ndegwa forged signatures of a land registrar, a land administrator, and several advocates in a scheme to unlawfully take over a prime parcel of land in Pangani valued at Ksh50 million. The professionals whose signatures were allegedly forged have denied any involvement.
The DCI stated that the arrest follows a meticulous investigation by its Land Fraud Investigations Unit, and that the scheme was intended to evict the property’s rightful owners.
“This arrest is part of sustained operations to dismantle illegal land fraud schemes,” the agency said, warning others engaging in similar crimes. “The DCI remains committed to protecting legitimate property owners and ensuring justice is served fairly and expeditiously.”
Land fraud continues to be a major concern in Nairobi, with authorities pledging firm action against perpetrators.
