Tim Orao Shikalo
A major criminal investigation into a sophisticated gold scam has led to the arrest of Tim Orao Shikalo, a prime suspect long sought by authorities. The Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed the breakthrough in the case, which centres on the defrauding of a foreign investor of USD 265,200 (approximately Sh38 million).
This development is part of an ongoing criminal investigation that previously resulted in the arrest of Steve Okoth Odek, also known as David Bett, on December 7, 2024. Odek was charged last year in connection with the same scheme, though he denied the charges.
According to findings from the criminal investigation, Odek fraudulently obtained the funds from Asianic Ltd by falsely claiming he could supply 580 kilograms of gold. The alleged crime occurred between February 1 and August 2, 2024, in Nairobi County, with other accomplices still at large.
The DCI disclosed that the scam included forged gold sale contracts for over 1,080 kilograms, accompanied by false assurances of secure delivery, legal support, and collateral. Forensic analysis during the criminal investigation revealed that the so-called gold was a mix of copper, zinc, and tin, lacking any precious metal content.
Shikalo remains in custody as he undergoes police processing ahead of arraignment. The criminal investigation continues as detectives track two more suspects believed to be part of this elaborate fraud network.
