NAIROBI, Kenya — Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested Vincent Omondi Oyugi and Rachael Njoki Kariuki in connection with an alleged Sh20 million fraud scheme targeting Kenyan youth under the Kazi Majuu labour mobility programme.
Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua confirmed the arrests on Wednesday, saying the suspects were apprehended after a day-long manhunt despite ignoring police summons and public calls to surrender. The two are accused of orchestrating a scheme that defrauded dozens of job seekers seeking overseas employment opportunities.
According to the ministry, the suspects allegedly operated through Zawadi Jobs Abroad Ltd, working in partnership with Briven International and Taushi Tours and Travel. Authorities believe the companies charged fees for non-existent or fraudulent job placements abroad.
“I commend the DCI for arresting the suspected masterminds behind the exploitation of innocent Kenyans,” Mutua said, adding that investigations will be expanded to cover all affected youth, including cases involving Youth Fund public monies.
The Cabinet Secretary emphasized that the Kazi Majuu Programme remains operational, distancing it from fraudulent agents operating within the labour export sector. He vowed continued action against rogue recruiters and assured job seekers that legitimate opportunities remain available.
In a broader crackdown, Mutua revealed that a multi-agency task force established in July 2025 has received 390 complaints related to travel agency and labour mobility fraud. Of these, 15 case files have already been forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for possible charges.
Investigators found that 116 complaints involve travel agencies, some of which were not registered with the National Employment Authority (NEA) or the Business Registration Service (BRS)—a criminal offence under Kenyan law. While some victims have been reimbursed, several cases are already before the courts, and others are pending due to conservatory orders blocking prosecution.
Authorities urged Kenyans to verify agents through the NEA, avoid cash payments, demand written contracts and receipts, and travel only on valid employment visas. Parents were also cautioned against allowing children to travel without proper documentation due to the risk of human trafficking.
Since 2022, more than 538,000 Kenyans have secured overseas employment, with daily departures averaging 450 to 500 workers. The ministry projects that the number could reach one million within the next year.
Investigations remain ongoing as authorities work to dismantle fraudulent networks and protect job seekers.
