More than 20 frustrated Kenyans showed up at Nairobi Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria’s office this week after falling victim to an overseas job scam run by Stephlee Tours and Travel. The company, based at Yala Towers on Biashara Street, promised good-paying work abroad but delivered nothing. Victims paid huge sums, some over 500,000 Kenyan shillings, and police have now arrested the owner and her son.
The scene at Mosiria’s office felt heavy with anger and disappointment. People sat and stood around, sharing stories of how their hopes for better lives turned into financial ruin. One woman in a brown sweater clutched her bag tightly, her voice shaking as she described selling everything she owned.
“I sold my restaurant, freezers, fridges, and machines. People know my name. Now I am from one house,” she said in her conversation to the gathering.
Another victim, Kevin, stepped forward with his phone records ready. “Mine was 500. I used to take it from my account and write Helen through M-Pesa,” he explained.
Several others followed, naming amounts from 105,000 to 385,000 shillings. Beatrice Wanjiru said she paid 100,000. Mercy Ambani mentioned 105,000. Samuel Njaroge lost 200,000. The total from just those present reportedly reached millions.
Victims Share Heartbreaking Losses in Nairobi Overseas Job Scam
Stephlee Tours and Travel operated from Room 705 at Yala Towers by Hellen Ngugi and her brother Liam Ngugi Maina. Victims said they were promised jobs in places like Norway, the US, Canada, and Australia. Some spoke of programmes that would lead to work visas and high salaries.
One woman described how an agent named Helen convinced her after she had been working in Turkey. “Helen told me she has a job in Norway. I gave her,” she recounted.
The process supposedly took four months, with down payments and later balances. Months passed with excuses about biometrics, seminars, and travel history.
“I paid for the visa fee of 50,000. I used that money. That amounted to 500,” she added, her frustration clear as she gestured with her hands.
Many had already gone to the police before coming to Mosiria’s office. When the company owner arrived to explain herself, her story left everyone doubtful. She claimed she too had been conned, but details did not line up.
Mosiria listened carefully before acting. He contacted the OCS at KICC, and officers arrived promptly. In the office, the mood shifted as the woman and her son were taken into custody.
“You’re under arrest. Your brother as well. Two of you,” officers told them directly.
Officials Demand Action Against Rogue Agencies Fuelling Nairobi Overseas Job Scam
Mosiria did not hold back in his address to the group and later in his public statement. “I wish to appeal to the Inspector General of Police to take firm action against rogue agencies that continue to con innocent Kenyans by promising opportunities for greener pastures abroad,” he said.
He has heard many similar complaints and believes it is time for real change. He urged the Ministry of Labour and the National Employment Authority to create and update a list of licensed recruitment agencies so people know who to trust.
Kenyans in the room nodded as he spoke. Some wiped tears while others held up their M-Pesa receipts and messages as proof. One man in a patterned shirt pointed to his documents, emphasising how much he had lost after closing his own business.
They were arrested on Friday, May 22, 2026. The suspects are expected in court shortly. Police will probe the entire scheme, including any partners in crime and where the money ended up.
This case is a painful example of a pattern in Nairobi and Kenya at large. Job seekers are dreaming of work abroad, desperate for jobs and tired of limited local opportunities. That hope is exploited by scammers with slick talk and false promises.
Mosiria ended with some practical advice. Always check before paying, signing agreements or sharing personal information. Do your homework, ask questions and get help where you need it.”
He encouraged victims to unite. “When victims unite, their cases become stronger. They can also reach out to me, and I will help amplify their stories so justice can be served.”
As the group dispersed, the air felt a little lighter for some. Arrests had been made, and their voices were heard. Yet the losses remain real.
