Seth Moab, a university dropout, was arrested by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on suspicion of defrauding companies in Kenya of millions of shillings through hacking and electronic fraud. The arrest occurred at his residence in Tatu City, Kajiado County, following a weeks-long investigation into a series of electronic fraud cases.
Investigation into Banking Fraud Activities
The DCI’s banking fraud investigations unit linked Moab to multiple fraudulent activities, including the siphoning of 11.4 million shillings from a major betting company. Authorities began investigating the case in July after the company reported losing a significant sum through unauthorized transactions involving a payment service provider.
Insights from Experts on Cybercrime
According to Dr. Abraham Mugami, the Central Region Criminal Investigations Officer, Moab allegedly bypassed security systems of the payment service provider to execute the fraud. Investigative efforts revealed that Moab operated from a sophisticated computer laboratory that contained tools used for cybercrime, including a money counting machine and a safe.
The DCI team initiated a search of his apartment early on Saturday morning but faced resistance from the suspect, which led them to force entry. The apartment turned out to be a hub for various illicit activities, according to investigators, indicating Moab’s extensive involvement in white-collar crime.
Authorities’ Response to Cybercrime Challenges
Moab, who claims to have been engaged in consultancy work, will face charges under the Computer Misuse and Cyber Crimes Act. The police are currently seeking the Director of Public Prosecutions’ approval to advance with charges as they work to recover assets believed to be linked to the crime.
As police address the increasing challenge of cybercrime, authorities assure the public that they are committed to investigating and prosecuting such offenses. Moab is set to remain in custody at the Capitol Hill Police Station pending a court appearance scheduled for Monday.
Ibrahim Karanja, an NTV reporter, covered the arrest and highlighted the DCI’s ongoing efforts to tackle banking fraud and electronic crimes. Community members expressed hope that the arrest would deter similar activities in the area. The case continues to develop as officials uncover more information about Moab’s operations and potential accomplices, with reports also highlighting growing concerns about cybercrime across the region.
