Detectives from the Nairobi Region Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau have arrested a man accused of orchestrating a high-value theft targeting a foreign tourist visiting the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

The suspect, identified as Kenas Okello Oyugi, is alleged to have used a false identity to befriend the victim, a Greek national who had arrived in Kenya on August 5, 2025.

The following day, the tourist, accompanied by his tour guide and a man he had met online who introduced himself as “Jeremiah John,” set out for the world-famous game reserve in Narok County.

According to investigators, the trip turned sour when the man posing as “Jeremiah” disappeared without warning. Missing along with him were three debit cards, a mobile phone, and a luxury Seiko Crystal wristwatch belonging to the tourist. Within hours, the victim’s bank accounts were drained of approximately €25,000 (over Sh3.7 million).

Police launched investigations immediately, conducting digital and forensic analysis to trace the suspect’s movements. It was soon established that “Jeremiah John” was a fake name, and his true identity was Kenas Okello Oyugi. Detectives tracked him down and eventually arrested him at his hideout in Nairobi.

A search during the arrest led to the recovery of several mobile phones, the stolen wristwatch, Sh54,050 in cash, and an undisclosed amount in US dollars. Officers also seized a brand-new Tour Trek bicycle believed to have been purchased using part of the stolen funds.

Okello is currently being held at Central Police Station, where he is undergoing further interrogation.

Authorities say he will be arraigned in court once processing is complete, as investigations continue.