A police operation in Diani has uncovered what investigators describe as a growing counterfeit money network operating along the Coast, leading to the arrest of three suspects and the recovery of KES 1.7 million in fake currency.
According to a statement issued by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the operation was carried out following forensic analyses that pointed detectives to a concealed hideout in the area.
The three suspects — identified by the DCI as Fadhili Lawrence, Atemba Lawrence, and Electrine Okwako — were found in possession of fake Sh1,000 notes packed inside a laptop bag marked with a ribbon labelled “CBK 1000.”
Detectives believe the packaging was intended to make the notes appear genuine and ease their circulation across trading hubs, particularly in Mombasa and its surroundings.
While presenting the details, the DCI noted that the trio is suspected to be part of a wider criminal enterprise distributing counterfeit money in the Coast region.
Similar syndicates have previously been uncovered in Nairobi, Nakuru, and parts of Western Kenya, often relying on small groups tasked with pushing the fake notes into informal markets where verification is minimal.
The Coast region has historically faced periodic spikes in economic crimes linked to tourism seasons, when increased cash transactions provide an opportunity for circulation of illicit currency.
In its statement, the DCI said the three suspects are currently in custody and are being processed ahead of their expected court appearance.
Officers are continuing to pursue additional individuals believed to be connected to the operation, signalling what investigators expect to be a broader crackdown on counterfeit networks along the Coast.
Law enforcement agencies have urged businesses and residents to remain alert, particularly when handling high-denomination notes.
Past crackdowns have shown that counterfeit money often circulates quickly through small traders, matatu operators, and night-time businesses before being detected.
The DCI confirmed that investigations remain active, with more arrests anticipated as officers work to dismantle the network and trace the source of the counterfeit currency.