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Types of fraudsters likely to encounter in Nairobi
05th May, 2026 11:58 PM
Nairobi is fast, busy, and full of opportunity. But it is also a place where you need to stay alert. Not everyone who approaches you has good intentions.
Many people who have lived in the city long enough will tell you the same thing. Most scams are not new.
They are repeated, refined, and passed from one person to another. What changes is how convincing they sound.
Here are some of the most common types of conmen and conwomen you are likely to meet.
The “nisaidie fare” storyteller
This one is very common, especially in the CBD.
Someone approaches you looking distressed. They tell you they have been job hunting the whole day, they are stranded, and they just need fare to get home.
Sometimes they even mention a specific place like Rongai, Githurai, or Kitengela to sound real..
The story is usually well rehearsed. Some even repeat it word for word to different people.
In some cases, begging in Nairobi has even been linked to organised groups, with individuals coached or placed strategically to collect money.
Not every person asking for help is a con, but the pattern is what matters. If the same story sounds too polished or repeated, be cautious.
The “dropped money” trick
This one is as old as the city itself, but it still works.
You are walking, then someone ahead of you “accidentally” drops money or an envelope. Another person quickly picks it and involves you, suggesting you share the money.
At that moment, you feel lucky.
What follows is the trap. They suggest moving to a quieter place to divide the cash. Along the way, they ask you to show some money or leave something valuable as “trust”.
By the time you realise what is happening, your phone, bag, or cash is gone. Cases of conmen using dropped money and fake bundles have been widely reported in Nairobi streets.
The “let me help you” distraction crew
These ones work in groups, and they are very coordinated.
It can happen in a matatu or on the street. Someone drops coins, a newspaper is spread over you, or there is sudden commotion. As you try to help or understand what is happening, another person is already going through your pockets or bag.
In some cases, they even pretend to assist you, like helping you fasten a seatbelt, while stealing from you at the same time.
By the time the confusion clears, they are gone.
The “I am lost, help me” setup
This one looks harmless.
Someone approaches you politely, claiming they are new in town or lost. They ask for directions or request you to walk with them to a certain place.
If you agree, they slowly lead you away from busy areas into quieter spots where accomplices are waiting.
It is not always obvious at first. The conversation feels normal until it is too late.
The “too good to be true” opportunity
This type plays on greed or curiosity.
Someone tells you they have won money, found cash, or have a deal where you can earn quickly.
They may show you fake proof, like a winning ticket or a bundle of money.
Then comes the catch. You are asked to give something small first, maybe as “security” or to unlock the opportunity.
Once you hand it over, the story changes, or the people disappear.
Why people still fall for these tricks
It is easy to think only strangers or newcomers get conned, but that is not true.
Most of these scams work because they target human instincts.
Kindness.
Greed.
Curiosity.
Trust.
They create urgency so you do not have time to think clearly.
