Mombasa detectives have arrested a man suspected of defrauding travellers through fake online holiday rentals, highlighting ongoing concerns about online scams targeting domestic tourists.
The arrest follows a complaint from a Nairobi resident who lost Sh24,000 while attempting to book a beachfront apartment for a family holiday.
The incident occurred in early December when the victim discovered an online listing called “Brima Mangu Apartment 2B,” purportedly located in Mombasa.
The listing included professional-looking photos and descriptions that convinced the family to proceed with a four-night booking at Sh6,000 per night.
The alleged owner, identified as Brian Masika, provided a mobile paybill number for payment, which the family used in good faith.
Upon arrival in Mombasa on December 4, 2025, the family found themselves without accommodation as all attempts to contact Masika failed.
The sudden disappearance prompted them to report the matter to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), which immediately launched a search for the suspect.
Investigators traced Masika to a hideout in Nyali Sub-County using forensic leads, resulting in his arrest. He is now in custody, undergoing processing before formal arraignment.
Online accommodation scams have become increasingly common in Kenya, particularly around the coastal tourism hubs of Mombasa and Diani. Experts say such fraud exploits the surge in domestic travel during school holidays and festive periods, when families seek affordable beachfront options.
The DCI has cautioned travellers to verify property ownership, confirm listings through reputable platforms, and exercise vigilance when deals appear unusually attractive.
This arrest follows earlier efforts by Kenyan authorities to clamp down on digital fraud targeting local and international tourists.
In recent years, police have successfully prosecuted individuals involved in fraudulent rental schemes, signaling increased enforcement as the government seeks to protect the country’s reputation as a safe tourist destination.