A growing number of Kenyan traders are raising concern as a dangerous criminal network continues to spread fear across the business community.
For the past year, the group has been moving from one enterprise to another, posing as police officers and government regulators while extorting large sums of money from business owners.
Many victims say the criminals appear highly organized, confident, and well equipped, which makes it difficult to distinguish them from genuine law enforcement officers.
Their activities have pushed some businesses to the brink of closure, while others have already shut down after repeated intimidation.
According to reports, the syndicate presents itself as an authority sanctioned by the state.
They carry forged Gazette Notices that claim to grant them power from agencies such as KEBS and KRA. With these documents, they announce fake inspections, demand bribes, and threaten anyone who questions them.
The Standard has highlighted that a private company is at the centre of these operations and is accused of impersonating state officials.
Shockingly, even after official directives instructing the company to stop all such activities, the group has continued operating without fear.
This has left many victims wondering who might be shielding them and why they have managed to evade accountability for so long.Victims say the criminals appear in full uniforms, complete with badges and identification cards that look genuine at first glance.
They walk into shops, warehouses, and factories with confidence, demanding “protection fees” or “compliance payments.” Traders who refuse to pay report that they are harassed, threatened, or forced to close their businesses.
Some say the extortionists return repeatedly, each time asking for more money. The forged documents make it difficult for unsuspecting business owners to immediately recognize the fraud, especially those who have not experienced formal inspections before.
Authorities have acknowledged the existence of the criminal network and confirmed that investigations are underway. Police representatives are urging Kenyans to remain alert and to verify the identities of anyone claiming to be an enforcement officer.
They say that genuine police and regulatory officials always carry verifiable identification and proper documentation, and the public should report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.
Legal experts are also advising business owners to request proper paperwork before allowing any inspection or enforcement activity.
Traders are encouraged to seek legal help immediately if they suspect extortion, and to avoid making payments out of fear. They argue that more awareness is needed among small businesses, which are often the most vulnerable.
Across the country, frustration is growing as more people learn about the scale of the activities carried out by this shadowy group.
There are increasing calls for stronger oversight of regulatory notices and better protection for entrepreneurs who are simply trying to run their businesses. Government officials have promised firm action, saying that no criminal organization should be able to operate while pretending to be part of the state.
Many hope that the ongoing investigations will finally expose everyone involved and restore confidence in law enforcement, allowing businesses to operate without fear.
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