A member of the notorious Mulot gang was arraigned in court on charges of defrauding Standard Chartered Bank of over KSh 6 million. The hacker, identified as John Wanjiru, allegedly used sophisticated methods to carry out the cybercrime, which has left both the bank and its customers in a state of shock.
According to the prosecution, Wanjiru exploited a vulnerability in the bank’s online systems, gaining unauthorized access to several customer accounts. The fraud was uncovered when bank officials noticed unusual transactions and promptly alerted authorities. Investigations revealed that the hacker had been siphoning off substantial sums of money from the accounts, transferring the funds into multiple foreign bank accounts.
The Mulot gang, which is believed to operate across various regions, is notorious for its involvement in cybercrimes, especially targeting financial institutions. They are known for using advanced hacking techniques and staying several steps ahead of law enforcement. Wanjiru’s arrest follows a series of successful crackdowns on the gang, which has raised concerns about the rising sophistication of cybercriminals in Kenya.
At the court hearing, Wanjiru was charged with multiple counts of computer fraud, theft, and conspiracy to defraud. He was remanded in police custody as the investigation continues. The court has scheduled the next hearing for later this month, where further evidence will be presented.
StanChart has since assured its customers that they are taking all necessary steps to safeguard their accounts and prevent future breaches. The case serves as a reminder of the growing threat posed by cybercriminals and the need for banks to bolster their security measures.
