DCI detectives on Tuesday arrested a suspected cyber fraudster in Igembe North, Meru County, recovering dozens of SIM cards and mobile phones linked to alleged criminal activity.
The suspect, a former convict, is believed to be part of a wider digital fraud network. The DCI said investigations are ongoing to identify accomplices and victims in the case.
The suspect, identified as Morris Kithinji Tirimiti, was apprehended during a coordinated evening operation in the Irindii area of Laare.
The raid was conducted by detectives from Igembe North, working jointly with Kenya Police Service officers under the leadership of the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) and the Sub-County Criminal Investigating Officer.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the operation followed “credible intelligence” linking the suspect to suspicious digital activities in the region.
Officers moved swiftly to track and corner the individual, believed to be central to a network of cyber fraud operations.
“Acting on credible intelligence today evening, sleuths launched a swift and coordinated operation in the Irindii area of Laare,” the DCI said in a statement.
Upon arrest, detectives carried out a search that uncovered multiple items suspected to have been used in fraudulent schemes.
These included six mobile phones and 39 SIM cards. Of the SIM cards recovered, 33 were registered under Safaricom PLC, while six belonged to Airtel.
Authorities said the volume of SIM cards raises concerns about the scale and sophistication of the suspect’s alleged activities.
“In addition, officers recovered a staggering 39 SIM cards raising serious concerns about the scale and sophistication of the suspect’s activities,” the statement added.
Preliminary investigations also revealed that the suspect has a criminal past. He is described as “no stranger to run-ins with the law,” having previously served a 12-year prison sentence at Kamiti and Naivasha prisons after being convicted of grievous harm.
Detectives believe the arrest could help dismantle a wider network of fraudsters operating in the region.
“The arrest marks a significant step in dismantling suspected fraud networks operating within the region,” the DCI said.
Cyber fraud has become an increasing concern in Kenya, with criminals exploiting mobile technology and SIM registration systems to conduct scams.
Authorities have repeatedly warned the public to remain vigilant, particularly as fraudsters adopt more sophisticated digital tactics.
In this case, investigators are expected to analyse the recovered devices and SIM cards to uncover communication patterns, financial transactions, and possible links to other suspects. The findings could provide insight into how such networks operate and the extent of their reach.
The DCI has reiterated its commitment to tackling cybercrime and protecting the public from fraudulent schemes.
“The DCI reiterates its commitment to safeguarding the public from criminal elements and urges anyone with information related to fraudulent activities to report to the nearest police station,” the statement said.
Members of the public have also been encouraged to report suspicious activities anonymously through the agency’s toll-free hotline and WhatsApp platform.
As investigations continue, authorities said the case reaffirms the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the public in addressing emerging digital threats.
