Detectives in Kenya have arraigned Antonucci Sergio Patrick, a U.S. citizen, over a fraudulent gold deal worth over USD 1.35 million. The suspect was charged with conspiracy to commit a felony and obtaining money by false pretenses at the Milimani Law Courts following his arrest after arriving in Nairobi from Dubai.
Elaborate Scheme Across Borders
Investigations revealed that Sergio met the victim, a fellow U.S. national, in Las Vegas, Nevada, in July 2023. Introducing himself as a former banker, investor, and legal consultant specializing in complex international markets, Sergio convinced the complainant to enlist his services for securing gold transactions in Africa.
On August 29, 2023, the victim paid Sergio USD 50,000 as a signing bonus, followed by payments of USD 15,000 each on January 24, 2024, and February 28, 2024.
A Chain of Deception
The victim traveled to Nairobi in March 2024, where Sergio introduced him to another alleged accomplice, Caden Gebhard, presented as a U.S. Special Forces soldier with critical regional contacts. The duo also brought in Congolese national Eric Kalala Mukendi, reportedly connected to the purported gold owner.
A Sales and Purchase Agreement was signed between the victim’s company, AURUMSIC ONE LLC, and the seller company, AERO Logistics. The victim paid USD 1,271,200 between March 31 and May 30, 2024, for 2,820 kilograms of gold. However, no gold was delivered, prompting the victim to report the matter to authorities.
Court Proceedings
During the arraignment, Sergio pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released on a bond of KSh 10 million with one Kenyan surety. The case will be mentioned on January 23, 2025, for pretrial. Authorities are still pursuing additional suspects involved in the scam.
