Kileleshwa Crypto Exchange Scam was reported in connection with the arrest of two men in Kileleshwa on 28 February 2025 over allegations that they defrauded a Chinese national of KSh 6.5 million. According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the suspects allegedly presented themselves as cryptocurrency exchange experts capable of facilitating a legitimate digital currency transaction.
Investigators alleged that the complainant was persuaded to release the funds after being convinced that the transaction was genuine. The case was reported as part of a wider rise in cryptocurrency and cyber-enabled fraud, with Kenya’s 2024/2025 Cybercrime Report estimating national cybercrime-related losses at more than KSh 30 billion.
The allegations against the arrested individuals remain subject to the judicial process and should not be treated as final findings of guilt unless proven in court. Members of the public are advised to verify the identity and credentials of cryptocurrency traders and use established, traceable platforms when conducting high-value digital asset transactions.
Reported 9 Feb 2026
