Detectives from the Operation Support Unit (OSU) have arrested a Cameroonian national suspected to be the mastermind behind a high-level fake gold syndicate that defrauded a Canadian investor of USD 618,000.

The suspect, identified as Francis Talla Oufa, alias Allain, was apprehended in Belfair Park, Dagoretti following an extensive investigation that traced his involvement in the fraudulent scheme.

According to police, the scam began in November 2024, when the Canadian victim, still in his home country, was lured into a seemingly lucrative deal involving the purchase of 250 kilograms of gold.

Enticed by promises of massive returns, the investor traveled to Kenya in April 2025 to finalize the transaction.

Upon arrival, he was received in lavishly furnished offices, an elaborate setup meant to project legitimacy and establish the illusion of a thriving gold trading enterprise.

He was then introduced to a network of well-rehearsed fraudsters, who convinced him of the authenticity of the deal.

Trusting their presentation, the victim handed over USD 618,000—only to later realize that he had fallen victim to an elaborate con.

Acting on forensic intelligence and investigative leads, OSU detectives tracked down and arrested the suspect.

A search of his vehicle and residence yielded critical evidence, including: Documents and seals related to gold transactions, a staff card for Sunshine Minerals Ltd bearing the suspect’s name and designation “Engineer Mining”, two laptops, three mobile phones, and other materials tied to the scheme

The suspect is currently in police custody and is undergoing further interrogation as detectives pursue leads to identify and apprehend his accomplices.

Authorities have warned that such scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and have urged both local and foreign investors to verify the legitimacy of gold dealers through the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and other official agencies before engaging in high-value transactions.