The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection has summoned a number of individuals and companies accused of running illegal recruitment schemes, following a wave of complaints from Kenyans alleging fraud and exploitation.

Through the Multi-Agency Response Team, the ministry says it has received dozens of formal reports from citizens who claim they were misled or defrauded by unregistered labor agents promising overseas job opportunities.

Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua has now directed all parties named in the official complaint log to present themselves to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Monday, July 21.

“All individuals and companies listed in the attached complaint log are hereby summoned to appear before the DCI desk located at the Multi-Agency Taskforce Office, NSSF Building, Block C, 7th Floor, between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. sharp,” Mutua said in a statement.

He warned that anyone who fails to honor the summons will face legal consequences.

“Failure to comply will attract coercive legal action in line with Kenyan law, including arrest, prosecution, and, where applicable, deregistration,” he cautioned.

CS Mutua also had stern words for those operating illegally under the guise of recruitment or travel agencies.

“If you’re posing as a recruitment agent without valid registration or licenses, we will find you. You’re risking a long-term holiday in prison,” he remarked.

The government has intensified its crackdown on fraudulent labor migration networks amid growing public concern over the rising number of Kenyans stranded or abused abroad after falling prey to fake job offers.