The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has successfully detained Sheila Wakesho Matasa, the alleged mastermind behind an extensive Airbnb scam that victimized holidaymakers across Nairobi, Kiambu, Kisumu, and Mombasa counties.
The 24-year-old suspect was apprehended at a bank lobby in Kiambaa, Kiambu County, following the freezing of her accounts due to suspicious transactions.
Authorities from the DCI have characterized Wakesho’s actions as part of a “carefully orchestrated scheme that has exploited both local and international coastal visitors.”
Wakesho strategically established various social media platforms, including Facebook accounts with names such as Lifestyle Beachfront Airbnb, Mombasa Raha Airbnb, and Shah Tours, amassing a following of over 10,000 unsuspecting individuals.
“In a meticulously orchestrated scheme that has exploited both local and international coastal visitors to the fullest, the audacious Wakesho established several social media platforms, claiming ownership of multiple Airbnbs in the Coastal region of Mombasa, attracting a following of over 10,000 unsuspecting enthusiasts,” stated the DCI.
The investigation revealed that Wakesho not only plagiarized information but also utilized copyrighted photos to promote her non-existent Airbnb properties.
Once she ensnared her victims online, Wakesho instructed them to transfer booking fees to M-Pesa, subsequently disappearing and leaving them stranded at various locations.
“After successfully luring targets who could only connect with her online, the discreet suspect with lucrative dealings guided them to funnel booking fees to M-Pesa Till no. 8981656 or Paybill no. 400200 ACC name: 01100252088001, following which she would vanish, leaving them stranded at beaches, bus stations, SGR terminals, and airports,” noted the DCI.
The suspect employed multiple subscriber SIM cards registered under different names, often utilizing stolen ID cards to avoid detection.
Wakesho was apprehended when a vigilant banker, depositing money into her account, noticed suspicious activity and promptly alerted the authorities.
The DCI is encouraging victims to step forward and report similar cases to the relevant authorities.
