Rise in Drink Spiking Cases Prompts DCI Warning.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has called on partygoers to exercise heightened vigilance to avoid falling victim to drink spiking and theft in entertainment venues. With the festive season in full swing, concerns have grown over an increase in incidents of drugging and robbery, extending even to rural entertainment spots.
Recent reports reveal a worrying surge in drink spiking schemes, colloquially known as ‘pishori’ scams. In these cases, unsuspecting individuals are drugged and subsequently robbed of their possessions. Criminals, often referred to as ‘Mchele Babes,’ have now infiltrated rural entertainment joints, targeting revelers during the holiday period.
DCI Issues Public Advisory
DCI head Amin Mohamed advised the public to remain vigilant, particularly in entertainment venues. He stated that while revelers flock to such places, not all individuals have good intentions. He emphasized that drink spiking cases are on the rise and encouraged Kenyans to be cautious to avoid falling victim.
This warning aligns with the Ministry of Interior’s recent announcement highlighting security concerns during the festive season. Authorities anticipate an increase in petty crimes such as pickpocketing, muggings, and illicit alcohol production in crowded areas like markets, public transport hubs, and entertainment spots.
Notable Incidents Highlight Growing Threat
Despite these warnings, ‘mchele’ gangs continue their activities. In a recent incident in Diani, a CCTV recording captured a holidaymaker being drugged and robbed at a hotel. Police disclosed that the victim, on a work-related trip, visited a popular joint and later returned to his hotel with a woman he met there. The suspect was seen leaving the room the next morning, having stolen two phones, a watch, ATM cards, and emptied the victim’s bank accounts.
In another case, DCI detectives arrested a woman in Kasarani suspected of drugging a Chadian national in Nairobi. After investigations, authorities recovered the victim’s stolen phones and several high-value electronics, including a 75” TV and a cooker, believed to have been purchased with proceeds from the theft. The DCI continues to pursue leads in these and similar cases.
Nationwide Pattern of Drink Spiking
Drink spiking incidents have been reported in towns such as Naivasha, Nakuru, and Nairobi, with many victims opting not to file complaints due to fear of judgment. In Nakuru, three revelers recently lost over Sh1 million collectively after a night of partying. One victim recounted how his drink was spiked at a popular joint, leading to the loss of his phone and Sh450,000. Similarly, in Naivasha, two tourists lost over Sh500,000 and personal items in a similar fashion.
Local pub managers like Peter Karanja in Nakuru acknowledge the challenge of identifying scammers among genuine patrons. He noted that these perpetrators often blend seamlessly into the crowd, making it difficult for bar staff to intervene. Karanja urged revelers to exercise personal caution, as even seemingly sophisticated individuals could be fraudsters.
Mchele Gangs’ Expanding Network
The infamous ‘mchele’ gangs have established a presence in towns such as Thika, Kiambu, Kericho, Eldoret, and Kisumu. Their activities have left law enforcement scrambling to address the rising threat.
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Past cases underline the severity of the issue. In Naivasha, incidents from 2021 to 2023 resulted in victims losing millions of shillings, with spiking cases coinciding with major events like the Safari Rally.
Call for Public Vigilance
Security officials have deployed additional officers to entertainment hotspots to curb crime during the holidays. However, they stress the importance of public awareness and self-protection. As festivities peak in the coming weeks, the likelihood of drink spiking incidents is expected to rise, warranting even greater caution from revelers.
