DCI has urged Coast holidaymakers to verify accommodation before paying.
Detectives have arrested a suspect accused of taking Ksh130,000 for promised accommodation in Nyali as DCI urges holidaymakers to verify online bookings.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has warned December holidaymakers about an Airbnb scam targeting travellers to the Coast. Detectives arrested a man accused of taking Ksh130,000 from a woman for accommodation that never materialised.
DCI said the suspect promised to secure a short-stay apartment in Nyali for the woman. However, she lost the money and did not get the promised accommodation.
Detectives from Nyali Sub-County arrested the suspect, who remains in custody as investigations continue. DCI also accused him of targeting travellers planning stays across Mombasa, Kilifi and Kwale counties.
DCI urges checks after Airbnb scam arrest
Following the arrest, police urged holidaymakers to take care when booking short-stay accommodation online. They advised travellers to verify properties and confirm that hosts are legitimate before making payments.
DCI also urged customers to reconsider suspicious payment requests as they prepare for the festive season. The warning comes ahead of December travel, when holidaymakers heading to the Coast seek temporary accommodation.
During the holiday season, fraudsters use websites that claim to offer short-stay apartments. They lure prospective guests with offers, then ask for deposits to reserve accommodation during the busy booking period.
Such schemes target travellers arranging accommodation before their trips. DCI’s advice therefore focuses on checking both the advertised property and the person offering it before sending money.
