DCI cautions public over violent crimes stemming from online romance scams

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued a stern warning to members of the public following a worrying rise in violent robberies connected to online dating platforms.

In a statement on Thursday, November 13, 2025, the agency revealed that criminals are increasingly targeting unsuspecting individuals through dating apps and social media, luring them into dangerous situations under the guise of friendship or romance.

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“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) wishes to alert members of the public regarding a disturbing rise in violent robberies originating from interactions on online dating platforms, where unsuspecting individuals are lured into perilous situations under the pretext of friendship or romance,” DCI wrote.

The DCI revealed that victims, including both Kenyan citizens and foreign nationals, are often approached online and cultivated into a false sense of trust before being invited to meet in private or unfamiliar locations.

The agency noted that these encounters frequently end in ambushes, theft, and, in some instances, physical assault.

According to the DCI, many of the perpetrators are highly skilled at manipulating emotional connections to extract personal or financial information from victims.

The agency lamented that this type of crime continues to evolve, putting individuals at serious risk if they do not exercise caution.

“Victims, both citizens and foreign nationals, are often approached on dating apps or social media, cultivated into a false sense of trust, and subsequently invited to meet in private or unfamiliar locations. Tragically, these gatherings frequently culminate in ambushes, robberies, and, in some cases, physical assaults,” DCI added.

The DCI urged the public to verify the identities of those they meet online, warning that profiles or stories that appear too perfect or inconsistent should be treated as potential red flags.

The agency advised that in-person meetings should always take place in safe, public, well-lit locations such as restaurants, cafes, or shopping centres, and that private or secluded areas should be avoided.

“In light of this alarming situation, we urge the public to exercise heightened caution when interacting with such platforms. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to protect your personal information. Avoid sharing any sensitive details, particularly financial information, with individuals you’ve only met online. Fraudsters are particularly skilled at creating emotional connections, which they then exploit to extract personal data that could lead to financial or personal harm,” DCI wrote.

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The DCI also instructed individuals to inform trusted friends or family about any planned meetings, including the person’s identity, location, and time.

The agency emphasised that phones should be fully charged and, where possible, live locations should be shared with a trustworthy person to ensure safety.

“Before you head out to meet someone, inform a trusted friend or family member about your plans, including whom you are meeting, where you will be, and the time of your meeting. Additionally, keep your phone charged and, if possible, share your live location with someone you trust,” the agency further said.

Highlighting the importance of vigilance, the DCI warned that anyone who encounters suspicious behaviour should disengage immediately and seek assistance. The agency encouraged victims and witnesses to report all incidents through official channels, emphasising that timely reporting can prevent others from falling prey to the same criminals.

“If you ever feel threatened or encounter suspicious behavior, disengage immediately and seek help. Don’t hesitate to contact the nearest police station or reach out to official channels for support. Reporting any suspicious profiles or threats can help protect others from becoming victims,” DCI added.