DCI raid Menorah Training Institute fake graduation Changamwe unfolded dramatically on Saturday when detectives from the Serious Crime Unit, collaborating with Commission for University Education officials, stormed Victory International Church and abruptly halted a ceremony issuing unaccredited degrees from a Ghana-linked institution.
The operation targeted an event organised by Menorah Training Institute in partnership with Dominion Mission Theological University Global, based in Ghana. Dozens of graduands dressed in gowns and caps sat stunned as officers demanded accreditation documents, which organisers could not produce.
Six individuals, including institute president Daniel Dela and board members Philomena Milano, John Kibet, Ann Ogola Owiti, Michael Ochieng, and Jason Oduor, were arrested and taken into custody for processing ahead of their court appearance.
Preliminary findings show Menorah Training Institute holds registration with the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority, limiting it to diploma-level programmes only.
Any awarding of bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees falls outside its mandate and violates Kenyan higher education laws enforced by the Commission for University Education.
Graduands, many pursuing theological studies through part-time classes, expressed shock and disappointment upon learning their hard-earned qualifications carried no legal weight. Some had invested years and significant fees expecting valid credentials for ministry work or career advancement.
One attendee from Kwale County told reporters he felt cheated after completing a master’s programme advertised as internationally recognised.
Church leaders at Victory International allowed use of the venue without full awareness of the academic irregularities, according to initial statements. Pastors emphasised their focus on community worship spaces and distanced the congregation from the institute’s operations.
The bust highlights growing concerns over bogus institutions exploiting demand for affordable religious education. Many target clergy and lay leaders seeking advanced biblical training without the rigorous entry requirements of mainstream universities. Partnerships with obscure foreign entities create illusions of legitimacy while bypassing local oversight.
Commission for University Education representatives at the scene reiterated public warnings to verify institutional status through official portals before enrolment. They noted rising cases of similar setups, often theological colleges promising quick degrees that prove worthless for employment or further studies.
Detectives seized certificates, academic records, and promotional materials for forensic analysis. Investigators are tracing financial trails to determine how many students enrolled over recent years and potential revenue generated from tuition.
Similar raids occurred earlier in 2025, including disruptions at Northwestern Christian University events where hundreds faced invalid qualifications. Authorities say coordinated crackdowns aim to protect vulnerable learners and maintain standards in higher education.
Community reactions in Changamwe mixed sympathy for affected students with approval for the intervention. Local youth leaders called for more awareness campaigns in churches and social media groups where such programmes advertise heavily.
Education stakeholders praised the swift action, viewing it as a deterrent against the proliferation of fake credentials flooding job markets. Employers increasingly demand verification, leaving holders of dubious papers at a disadvantage.
As the six suspects remain detained pending charges of operating without a licence and fraud, the incident serves as a stark reminder for prospective students. Regulatory bodies urge checking accredited lists published regularly to avoid falling victim.
Theological training remains vital for Kenya’s vibrant faith communities, but genuine pathways exist through recognised seminaries and universities. This raid underscores commitment to safeguarding educational integrity amid evolving challenges in the private learning sector.
Families of arrested officials appealed for fair process, maintaining the programs helped many deepen spiritual knowledge even if formal recognition lacked. Broader debate now focuses on bridging gaps for affordable accredited alternatives in religious studies.
For now, the halted ceremony at Victory International Church stands as the latest chapter in ongoing efforts to clean up the higher education landscape, ensuring qualifications reflect real merit and meet national standards.
