The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched an intensive manhunt for a wanted suspect at the center of a high-profile, multi-million shilling car import fraud that allegedly targeted foreign nationals, including United Nations (UN) personnel based in Nairobi. The suspect, identified by the DCI as Timothy Njeru Wanjuki, is the director and sole shareholder of East Africa Motors Limited, a company now at the heart of multiple criminal investigations.
According to an official statement issued by the DCI, Wanjuki is being sought in connection with several cases of Obtaining Money by False Pretences, a criminal offense under Kenyan law. Investigators allege that the suspect orchestrated a sophisticated scheme in which clients were promised the importation of motor vehicles—promises that were either never fulfilled or only partially honored after victims were forced to pay significant additional costs.
Alleged Targeting of Foreign Nationals and UN Staff
DCI investigators say the suspect specifically targeted foreign nationals, including UN staff working in Nairobi, leveraging the perceived credibility of a registered company and the growing demand for imported vehicles. Victims were reportedly persuaded to transfer large sums of money—often tens of thousands of US dollars—into bank accounts directly controlled by Wanjuki.
The payments, the DCI says, were meant to cover the full cost of importing vehicles from Japan and other international markets. However, evidence gathered during investigations suggests that in many cases, the funds were not fully remitted to the overseas suppliers.
Incomplete Payments and Costly Delays
While some vehicles were eventually imported, the DCI states that payments to Japanese suppliers were frequently incomplete, triggering a chain of financial and logistical problems. These included prolonged shipping delays, unexpected storage fees, port charges, and other penalties that clients had not anticipated.
In several instances, complainants were forced to pay additional money simply to secure the release of their vehicles. In more serious cases, victims reportedly received no vehicles at all, despite having paid substantial upfront amounts.
“The financial losses suffered by complainants run into tens of thousands of US dollars,” the DCI said, noting that the cumulative losses point to a large-scale and deliberate fraud operation.
Offices Closed, Operations Moved Online
As complaints mounted, investigators discovered that East Africa Motors Limited had closed its physical offices, raising further red flags. The DCI reports that the company’s operations had shifted almost entirely online, making it harder for clients to trace or confront the suspect.
This move, investigators believe, may have been intended to evade accountability and frustrate efforts by victims seeking refunds or explanations for delayed or undelivered vehicles.
In response to the unfolding investigation, the DCI took decisive action by having the company’s website taken down, effectively cutting off a key channel through which potential victims could be lured into new transactions.
Company Deregistered Amid Criminal Probe
The crackdown did not stop there. The DCI confirmed that East Africa Motors Limited has since been deregistered, stripping it of any legal standing to conduct business in Kenya. Authorities say this step was necessary to prevent further public harm as investigations continue.
“The cancellation of the company’s registration and the takedown of its website were preventive measures aimed at protecting the public from further fraudulent engagements,” the DCI stated.
Nationwide and Multi-Unit Manhunt
Efforts to locate and arrest Timothy Njeru Wanjuki are ongoing, with the DCI working closely with other investigative and enforcement units. Officials say the suspect remains at large, and tracking him down is now a top priority due to the scale of the alleged fraud and the number of victims involved.
The DCI has not disclosed whether Wanjuki may have fled the country but emphasized that all available avenues are being pursued to ensure his arrest and prosecution.
Strong Public Warning Issued
In a stern warning to the public, the DCI has strongly cautioned against conducting any business transactions with Timothy Njeru Wanjuki or any entities associated with him. Authorities fear that despite the company’s deregistration, the suspect or his associates could attempt to continue operations under different names or platforms.
“Members of the public are advised to exercise extreme caution and to verify the legitimacy of any car import business before making payments,” the DCI said.
Victims and Whistleblowers Urged to Come Forward
The DCI has called on anyone with pending complaints, unresolved cases, or relevant information linked to the suspect to report immediately to the DCI Serious Crime Unit. Officials say additional testimonies and financial records could be critical in strengthening the case and tracing the flow of funds.
Members of the public who may have information that could help locate and apprehend the suspect are encouraged to share it confidentially through the Fichua Kwa DCI channels. Reports can be made via the toll-free hotline 0800 722 203 or through WhatsApp at 0709 570 000.
DCI Reaffirms Commitment to Justice
As investigations continue, the DCI has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens and residents—both local and foreign—from fraudulent schemes. The agency emphasized that financial crimes, particularly those targeting expatriates and international staff, damage Kenya’s reputation as a safe place to live, work, and invest.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations remains committed to ensuring justice for victims and holding perpetrators of fraud accountable, regardless of their methods or perceived sophistication,” the statement concluded.
The case highlight the risks associated with online and cross-border transactions and underscores the importance of due diligence when engaging car importers or other high-value service providers. As the manhunt intensifies, victims and the wider public await the arrest of the suspect and the next steps toward accountability and restitution.
