CITY CRIME: Detectives from the Operations Support Unit (OSU) have arrested David Onyango Ochanda, the alleged mastermind of a sophisticated gold scam that swindled an American investor out of USD 225,968.64.

The scam, which unfolded between April 3 and April 29, 2024, began when the investor flew into Kenya to seal a deal for 3,370 kilograms of gold.

Upon arrival, he was taken to an office at Gate 53, Chalbi Drive in Lavington, Nairobi, where he signed a Sales and Purchase Agreement and even witnessed a smelting process — a staged act designed to create an illusion of authenticity.

On April 25, the investor was introduced to Toureg Insurance Brokers Limited, allegedly contracted to insure the gold during transit.

Ochanda, named as the contact person, facilitated the signing of an addendum to the agreement, adding insurance costs.

An invoice was issued for USD 226,012.76, and four days later, the investor wired USD 225,968.64 to the company’s account.

The gold never arrived. Investigations later revealed that Ochanda was the director of Toureg Insurance Brokers Limited and a signatory to the bank account that received the funds.

On Friday, OSU officers mounted a coordinated operation that led to his arrest. Ochanda is currently in custody and will be arraigned on Monday, August 18, 2025.