The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued a serious warning to the public after a sharp rise in violent robberies connected to online dating platforms and social media interactions.
In a statement released on Thursday, the DCI said that both Kenyan citizens and foreign nationals are being targeted by criminals who pose as friendly strangers on dating apps. These fraudsters spend days or weeks chatting with victims to gain their trust before inviting them to meet in private or unfamiliar places.
According to the DCI, many of these meet-ups have ended badly. “Tragically, these gatherings frequently result in ambushes, robberies, and sometimes physical assaults,” the agency reported.
Investigators say the suspects often pretend to be romantic partners or new friends. Once they establish an emotional connection, they ask for private information — including mobile money details, bank information, or personal documents — which puts victims at even greater risk.
The DCI warned that these criminals are highly skilled at manipulating emotions and creating convincing fake profiles.
To reduce cases of such attacks, the DCI urged Kenyans to be very careful when interacting with strangers online. The agency shared several safety guidelines:
Do not share personal or financial information with people you have only met online.
Verify identities by checking for inconsistent stories, suspicious behaviour, or profiles that look “too perfect.”
Choose public meeting places such as cafés, restaurants, and busy shopping centres if you decide to meet someone in person.
Avoid private homes or isolated places during first meetings.
Tell a trusted friend or family member about your plans, including the meeting location and time.
Share your live location when possible, and keep your phone fully charged.
Seek Help Immediately If You Feel Unsafe
The DCI also encouraged anyone who feels uncomfortable or notices suspicious behaviour — whether online or in person — to disengage immediately and seek help from authorities or trusted people nearby.
The agency says it is increasing investigations into such cases but insists that public awareness is the strongest way to prevent more people from falling victim.
