DCI Issues Warrant for Ben Shapaya Motor Vehicle Import Fraud

• The DCI has launched a public appeal to locate Ben Shapaya, who is wanted for alleged motor vehicle import fraud.
• Shapaya is sought under a warrant of arrest issued by the Kibera Chief Magistrates’ Court after failing to appear for a cheating charge.
• He is accused of posing as a medical doctor to defraud individuals by promising to facilitate vehicle imports from Japan.
• The charges against Shapaya are contrary to Section 315 of the Kenya Penal Code.
• The DCI is urging the public to provide information through various channels, including a hotline and social media.

This active DCI manhunt for an alleged motor vehicle import fraudster underscores the ongoing commitment to combating such illicit schemes across Kenya.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued a public appeal for assistance in locating Ben Shapaya, who is sought in connection with an alleged motor vehicle import fraud scheme. Shapaya is wanted pursuant to a warrant of arrest issued by the Kibera Chief Magistrates’ Court, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations against him.

The DCI's proactive step to involve the public underscores the gravity of the case, which centers on claims that Shapaya could facilitate the importation of motor vehicles from Japan. This development signals a focused effort by Kenyan authorities to apprehend individuals suspected of engaging in such illicit activities that prey on unsuspecting citizens.

Investigators allege that Ben Shapaya employed a deceptive strategy, reportedly posing as a medical doctor based in Mombasa to cultivate trust among potential victims. This alleged identity allowed him to gain the confidence of several individuals, subsequently leading them to believe he could arrange for the importation of vehicles from Japan. Victims are said to have transferred funds to Shapaya based on these promises, only to be allegedly defrauded.

Shapaya, identified as a resident of Isanjiro Village, Musingu Location, Kakamega County, was previously arraigned in court on June 10, 2025. He faced charges of cheating, which contravene Section 315 of the Kenya Penal Code. His subsequent failure to appear before the court led directly to the issuance of the Ben Shapaya warrant of arrest Kenya, prompting the current DCI manhunt.

In their efforts to trace Ben Shapaya, the DCI has urged anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to come forward. The public can provide details through several official channels, including the DCI's toll-free hotline at 0800 722 203 or via WhatsApp at 0709 570 000. Information can also be reported at any local police station.

Additionally, citizens may contact the National Police Service through their emergency numbers: 999, 911, or 112. The DCI has also encouraged the use of the #FichuaKwaDCI platform for sharing information that could aid detectives in locating the suspect. This broad appeal highlights the DCI's reliance on community engagement in resolving complex cases like this alleged DCI motor vehicle import scam.

This active DCI manhunt for an alleged motor vehicle import fraudster underscores the ongoing commitment to combating such illicit schemes across Kenya. While investigations into the Ben Shapaya alleged fraud Kenya remain ongoing, it is important to note that the allegations against him are yet to be thoroughly examined and proven in a court of law.

The public appeal and the specific charges under Kenya Penal Code Section 315 cheating, as handled by the Kibera Chief Magistrates’ Court fraud proceedings, serve as a stark reminder of the risks associated with unofficial vehicle importation services. Legal professionals should advise clients on the critical importance of enhanced due diligence when engaging with individuals or entities offering such services, emphasizing the DCI's active enforcement against these types of financial crimes.

This DCI manhunt for an alleged motor vehicle import fraudster underscores active enforcement against such schemes in Kenya. Legal professionals should advise clients on enhanced due diligence for vehicle importation services and be aware of the DCI's public appeal methods in ongoing criminal cases.

Source: Original reporting on DCI statements.