Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations have arrested a 60-year-old man over an alleged scheme to fraudulently acquire land titles for high-value properties in Nairobi.
David Ndegwa Mwangi was apprehended by officers from the Land Fraud Investigations Unit at DCI headquarters in connection with three prime plots located in the upscale Countryside Villa Estate along Muthaiga Drive. Each parcel is estimated to be worth about Sh45 million, placing the total value of the contested properties at approximately Sh135 million.
According to investigators, the suspect, together with accomplices who are still at large, is accused of orchestrating the fraudulent procurement of title documents for the properties. Authorities say the group went as far as physically visiting the land and attempting to assert ownership, despite the legitimate owner holding valid and authentic title deeds.
The case was reported by the rightful owner, who raised alarm after the suspects allegedly tried to forcefully claim the parcels. The incident has once again highlighted the growing threat of land fraud in Nairobi, particularly in high-end areas where property values continue to rise.
Following investigations, the case file was forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, which directed that charges be preferred against Mwangi and his accomplices for fraudulent procurement of title.
Mwangi is currently in custody as he undergoes processing ahead of his arraignment in court. Meanwhile, detectives have intensified efforts to track down other suspects linked to the scheme.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has reiterated its commitment to protecting property ownership and cracking down on land fraud networks, warning that those involved in illegal land dealings will face the full force of the law.
