Nairobi, Kenya – Two women have been arrested by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) after they were found with USD 560,000 (about Ksh.70 million) in fake currency.
The suspects, identified as Ifrah Ali Jeyte and Qamar Salat Abdi, were arrested in the Upper Hill area during a planned operation by detectives from the DCI Nairobi Regional Office.
According to an official police statement, officers recovered numerous bundles of counterfeit USD 100 notes hidden in one of the suspect’s handbags.
“The magnitude of their operation became evident when officers conducted a count of the counterfeit currency at DCI Nairobi Area Headquarters,” the DCI said. “It revealed a total of USD 560,000, equivalent to Ksh.70 million.”
Authorities believe the suspects may be part of a larger fake currency syndicate operating in Nairobi. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the counterfeit money and whether more individuals are involved.
The women are currently in police custody and will be charged in court once processing is complete.
The DCI has warned the public to stay alert and report any suspicious financial dealings, especially involving foreign currency exchanges or unusually high returns on money investments. Fake currency scams have become increasingly common, targeting both individuals and businesses.
This arrest adds to a series of recent operations where authorities have cracked down on fake currency and financial fraud across Nairobi and other urban centers. Earlier this year, DCI dismantled a ring linked to fake gold and forged foreign currencies, which involved both local and foreign suspects.
The DCI has confirmed that charges will be filed against the two women, and further updates will be provided as the case develops.
