Suspects arrested in Watamu after wrong PIN exposes alleged M-Pesa scam

Arrest illustration.

Two suspects posing as Safaricom agents have been arrested in Watamu after a failed attempt to defraud a businessman of his M-Pesa funds.

Police said the duo had been roaming around Timboni and nearby areas, targeting traders by persuading them to register for Till Numbers and Pochi La Biashara services.

Their plan collapsed when they mistakenly entered the wrong PIN while attempting to con a local businessman, exposing them.

Detectives quickly responded and arrested the suspects.

During the operation, officers recovered two mobile phones, Safaricom-branded T-shirts, and registration forms for Till Numbers and Pochi La Biashara, which were allegedly being used in the fraudulent scheme.

“The suspects were arrested after a failed attempt to trick a trader, during which they exposed themselves by entering the wrong PIN,” police said in a statement.

The two are currently being held at Watamu police station as they await arraignment in court to face fraud-related charges.

Police have urged members of the public who may have been victims of the suspects to come forward.

“Residents of Watamu and its environs who may have been victims are advised to report for assistance and further police action,” the statement added.

Cases of fraud targeting mobile money users have been on the rise across the country, with authorities frequently warning the public to remain vigilant.

Fraudsters often disguise themselves as genuine service providers, luring unsuspecting individuals into sharing sensitive details or signing up for fraudulent services.

Safaricom has also cautioned Kenyans to be on high alert against such scams.

In an advisory on its website, the firm notes: “Fraudsters are getting smarter, and bolder. They may appear online, on the phone, or even at your doorstep, pretending to be Safaricom personnel or other firms.

"Remember, Safaricom will never ask for your M-PESA PIN, passwords, or personal details, whether in person, online, or over the phone. If anyone does, it's a scam.”

The Watamu arrests serve as a reminder for mobile money users to exercise caution and report suspicious activity to police immediately.