Detectives have arrested a land fraud suspect who allegedly forged official documents in an attempt to seize a high-value property in Nairobi’s Pangani area.
The arrest marks the latest move by investigators targeting fraudulent land transactions that continue to threaten property ownership rights in the capital.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ Land Fraud Investigations Unit apprehended Francis Maina Ndegwa after he failed to appear in court for plea taking on February 19, 2026, at the Milimani Law Courts.
A warrant of arrest was subsequently issued, prompting a manhunt that culminated in his capture.
According to investigators, Ndegwa faces charges of fraudulent procurement of a Certificate of Lease contrary to the Lands Registration Act.
Detectives allege he forged signatures belonging to a land registrar, land administrator, and advocates, all of whom denied any involvement in the transaction.
Authorities say the suspect intended to unlawfully evict the legitimate owners of a prime parcel of land in Pangani, valued at approximately Sh50 million.
The alleged scheme was uncovered following investigations that halted the transfer before the property could change hands.
After skipping his scheduled court appearance, Ndegwa reportedly went into hiding, triggering an intensified search by detectives. He is currently in custody and is expected to be arraigned in court on Friday.
The DCI said the arrest reflects sustained operations aimed at dismantling land fraud networks and protecting legitimate property owners from unlawful dispossession.
Land fraud remains a persistent challenge in Nairobi and other urban centres, where rising property values have made real estate a prime target for criminal syndicates.
Authorities have urged property owners to remain vigilant and verify documentation through official land registries to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.