DCI arrested a suspect over an alleged Sh130,000 holiday accommodation fraud in Nyali.
Nyali detectives arrested Nelson Okota Odhiambo in Bamburi after a woman allegedly lost Sh130,000 while seeking holiday accommodation.
Nyali detectives have arrested an Airbnb fraud suspect accused of taking Sh130,000 from a woman seeking holiday accommodation in Mombasa County.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations identified the suspect as Nelson Okota Odhiambo. Detectives arrested him in Bamburi following investigations into the woman’s complaint.
DCI said Odhiambo allegedly promised to arrange an Airbnb apartment in Nyali for the woman’s coastal holiday. However, she did not receive the accommodation after paying the money.
The suspect remains in police custody as officers process him ahead of his court appearance.
Airbnb fraud inquiry extends beyond Mombasa
Meanwhile, preliminary investigations suggest the alleged scheme may have targeted travellers planning visits to Kilifi and Kwale counties. DCI is examining the suspected activity beyond Mombasa as part of its investigation.
With the festive season approaching, the agency also urged holidaymakers to take care when booking accommodation online. It advised travellers to verify properties and confirm that hosts are legitimate before making payments.
In addition, DCI warned travellers against sending money when they notice signs of suspicious activity. Its advice focused on checking both the accommodation and the person offering it before committing funds.
The agency said it would continue pursuing people involved in online fraud targeting members of the public.
