A man who fraudulently posed as a highly-trained forensic expert offering tape-lift services at Ridgeways Centre, Kiambu Road, was arrested and brought before court today. The individual, identified as Manace Otieno Ayata, misrepresented himself as a CSI detective affiliated with the DCI’s National Forensic Laboratory, in what is now being investigated as part of a larger scam.
The Fraudulent Scheme Unfolds
The scam came to light when a car owner, who had recently purchased a vehicle as a Valentine’s Day gift, sought tape-lifting services. Tape lifting is a forensic technique used to gather fingerprint evidence from vehicles. The car owner was directed to Ayata by car sellers who claimed he worked at the DCI Headquarters, a key piece of information Ayata used to build trust.
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After arranging to meet Ayata at Ridgeways Centre, the car owner found himself unable to reach the supposed forensic expert upon arrival. After several failed attempts to contact Ayata, the car owner sought guidance from security personnel, who directed him to the Forensic Lab on the premises, assuming it was the place where Ayata worked.
“The fraudster’s attempt to impersonate a forensic expert was thwarted by sharp-eyed investigators who swiftly took action to protect the public from his deceitful practices,” said a police spokesperson.
Suspicious of Ayata’s credentials, the Chief Inspector of Police—who was already conducting a tape-lift service for another vehicle—made inquiries within the department but found no record of Ayata. Just as the officer began to investigate, Ayata returned the car owner’s call, claiming he was unavailable but could still offer the service at Ridgeways.
The Arrest
Realizing he was dealing with a scam artist, the car owner decided to continue the ruse. Detectives, working discreetly with the car owner, accompanied him to the meeting point in an unmarked government vehicle. Upon arrival, Ayata immediately began attempting to open the car’s hood. However, before he could proceed, police moved in and arrested him.
Ayata’s arrest was further sealed when authorities identified him with a government-issued vehicle sticker on the scene. This confirmed the legitimacy of the law enforcement personnel involved in the operation.
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“It is deeply troubling to see criminals exploit public trust in law enforcement agencies, but we are committed to bringing such individuals to justice,” said the DCI Director.
Evidence Seized During the Arrest
A subsequent search of Ayata uncovered several incriminating items, including19 vehicle logbooks, 35 tape-lift reports, Various driving licenses and National ID cards, believed to have been obtained through fraudulent means.
These items indicate that Ayata may have been running a larger operation, preying on unsuspecting victims in need of forensic services.
Legal Proceedings
Ayata appeared before Kahawa Law Courts today, where he was granted bail set at Sh 500,000 with one surety of equal amount, or a cash bail of Sh 100,000. The case will be mentioned again on February 28, 2025.
“What may seem like a routine service request turned out to be an elaborate scam, underscoring the importance of verifying credentials in every transaction,” said the Chief Inspector of Police from the Forensic Unit.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate Ayata’s activities, suspecting he could be part of a larger organized criminal ring linked to motor vehicle theft. Serious Crimes detectives are diligently pursuing further leads to dismantle the network.
“This arrest is just the beginning. We are committed to dismantling any criminal network involved in fraudulent activities, ensuring that no stone is left unturned,” added a Serious Crimes Detective.
How to Avoid Forensic Fraud
In light of this case, it’s essential for vehicle owners to be aware of how to avoid falling victim to similar frauds. Here are some tips to verify forensic services and avoid scams:
Always verify credentials: Contact the agency directly (e.g., DCI) to confirm the legitimacy of the person offering forensic services.
Look for official documentation: Authentic forensic experts will provide identification and proof of their affiliation with the relevant law enforcement agency.
Don’t rush: Scammers often create a sense of urgency. Take the time to confirm details before proceeding with services.
For those who suspect similar fraudulent activity, the DCI encourages the public to report anonymously by calling 0800722203.
Why This Case Matters: The Importance of Forensic Services in Crime Prevention
Forensic services, like tape-lifting, play a crucial role in solving crimes and protecting the public. With the rise of fraudulent actors like Ayata, it’s essential that both law enforcement agencies and the public remain vigilant in preventing such deceptive practices. The arrest of Manace Otieno Ayata not only demonstrates the commitment of the DCI to justice but also highlights the need for ongoing education and awareness in preventing fraud.
By taking proactive steps to verify the credentials of anyone offering forensic services, we can all contribute to keeping our communities safe.
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