The government has intensified efforts to dismantle groups accused of extorting money from unsuspecting Kenyans under the guise of facilitating compensation for Mau Mau war veterans and their dependents.

These groups have reportedly duped citizens into paying registration fees and contributing ‘shares’ with promises of financial settlements tied to the atrocities inflicted on Mau Mau freedom fighters by colonial forces during Kenya’s struggle for independence.

Nyeri South Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Daniel Ndege revealed that many residents of Othaya town have fallen victim to one such group.

The group allegedly convinced them to pay for inclusion in a compensation scheme purportedly funded by the British government.

“There are about 11 groups preying on vulnerable elderly citizens at the grassroots, fleecing them of significant sums of money. In Othaya town alone, reports indicate individuals have been charged Sh500 for registration and even larger amounts as shares, with some victims losing up to Sh200,000,” Ndege said.

Law enforcement recently arrested seven suspects allegedly linked to one of these groups, and Ndege assured that they would face prosecution. He warned that the groups rely on counterfeit documents to legitimize their schemes.

“These fraudulent activities have been ongoing since 2003, with the groups continuously refining their tactics to deceive more people,” Ndege said.

“I urge citizens not to fall for these scams. Any compensation for Mau Mau veterans and their dependents will be issued directly by the government, not through intermediaries,” he added.

He added that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is actively pursuing the matter, with plans to dismantle networks connected to collaborators in Nairobi. Ndege commended the public for providing critical information.

Chinga MCA Kiruga Thuku also voiced concern over the schemes, urging the government to intensify investigations and prevent further exploitation.

“It is heartbreaking that our elderly citizens are being conned daily by these criminals. I appeal to residents to be cautious. If anyone promises compensation in exchange for money, they are likely con artists,” Thuku said. On Sunday, police arrested seven suspects accused of recruiting members in Othaya town. The group, identifying as the Mau Mau War Veterans Association, convened a press briefing.