In a shocking fraud case that DCI unearthed, Sheila Wakesho Matasa, the alleged mastermind behind a series of fraudulent schemes targeting holidaymakers, has been apprehended by detectives in Kiambaa, Kiambu County. The 24-year-old suspect’s audacious exploits spanned across Nairobi, Kiambu, Kisumu, and Mombasa counties, leaving unsuspecting victims stranded and out of pocket.
Wakesho’s modus operandi involved creating a facade of multiple Airbnb properties along the picturesque coastal region of Mombasa. With social media accounts like Lifestyle Beachfront Airbnb, Mombasa Raha Airbnb, and Shah Tours, she managed to amass a following of over 10,000 individuals seeking memorable getaways.
However, her apparent empire was built on deception. The content used to promote these luxury accommodations was plagiarized, and the accompanying photos were not only misleading but also bore copyright infringement. Wakesho’s victims, who could only interact with her online, fell prey to her cunning tactics.
The unsuspecting holidaymakers were instructed to channel their booking fees to Mpesa Till number 8981656 or Paybill number 400200 ACC name: 01100252088001. Once the funds were transferred, Wakesho disappeared, leaving her victims stranded at various locations, including beaches, bus stations, SGR terminals, and airports.
What makes Wakesho’s case particularly intricate is her meticulous effort to cover her tracks. She used multiple subscriber SIM cards registered under different names, often utilizing stolen ID cards. The list of numbers associated with her fraudulent activities includes 0708901010, 0799 661 708, 0799 605 774, 0707 920971, 0742 521046, and 0788 370306.
The turning point in her spree came when she targeted a banker who refused to be just another victim. The banker’s alertness and quick action led to a tip-off to the detectives, culminating in Wakesho’s arrest at a bank lobby in Ruaka.
As law enforcement agencies across Nairobi, including DCI Kilimani, Kasarani, Thika, Kiambaa, and DCI Kiambu, process files for her arraignment, Wakesho awaits legal proceedings in multiple counties where her fraudulent activities have been reported.
For individuals with information or potential victims, the DCI has launched the #FichuakwaDCI campaign, urging them to call 0800 722 203. Remember, reporting is a shared responsibility!