Luthuli Avenue conmen 2025 tops among the Kenya TV scam stories. Llewellyn Ouya fraud victim among who paid for Luthuli Avenue hidden charges saying Luthuli Avenue buyer beware. Nairobi CBD scam shops mostly located along that streets.
Nairobi’s Luthuli Avenue, a bustling electronics hub in the Central Business District, has become synonymous with fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting buyers seeking affordable TVs and gadgets.
Recent victim accounts, including those shared on X and reported by NTV Kenya and Daily Nation, reveal a pattern of deception where shoppers are lured with low prices only to face exorbitant “activation fees” or receive inferior products.
The scams, thriving despite police crackdowns, have left many Kenyans broke and humiliated, as fraudsters exploit trust with tactics like hidden charges and intimidation.
Llewellyn Ouya, a fraud victim, recounted his ordeal to NTV Kenya: “A huge guy came and told us, ‘Sasa hii TV mnafaa kulipa Sh8k so that ikuwe pluggable kuactivate hizo ports za Power, HDMI na USB.’ Vile nilisikia akitaja hio Sh8k, nikajua tunagongwa.”
Ouya, who sought a digital TV for gaming, narrowly escaped after recognizing the scam but highlighted the pressure tactics used by sellers.
Another victim shared, “Went to Luthuli Avenue, bought a 32” telly for the price of a 24” one. Soon I gave out cash, they gave me the 24” one and asked if I’ve ever seen a 32” TV going for such an amount. My self-esteem has never been lowered so much.”
These stories echo countless others, with victims like John Mainah reporting being coerced into paying Sh5,000 monthly subscriptions for a TV initially priced at Sh11,000.
The scams typically involve enticing buyers with deals too good to be true, such as a 43-inch Hisense TV for Sh15,000, only to demand additional fees for “receivers,” “CCK licenses,” or “subscriptions” after payment.
Refunds are nearly impossible, with sellers threatening violence or claiming stringent return policies.
Victims like Winnie Henry, who in 2019 was pressured to pay extra for a warranty, and Naftali Kibaara, who received a low-quality TV after refusing additional fees, highlight the organized nature of these cons.
Many, like an elderly man captured screaming in despair on video, are too embarrassed to report to police, who often record statements without follow-up.
Despite efforts by Kamukunji and Central Police Stations, dubbed the “Kamukunji 15,” to curb fraud, incidents persist.
Central Police boss David Mburukua noted a reduction in cases due to patrols, but victims claim justice remains elusive.
