Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested renowned fashion designer and entrepreneur Emmaculate Odhiambo Odhuno alongside her alleged accomplice, Benson Odero Gember, over their suspected role in a multi-million-shilling gold scam targeting foreign investors.

According to a police report, the duo had been on the run for several months before being tracked down and apprehended.

The case dates back to September 2024, when two investors from Dubai were lured into a supposed deal to purchase 35 kilograms of gold. The opportunity promised high returns, but it was later revealed that the gold did not exist.

DCI officials report that after days of negotiations, the investors flew into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). They were chauffeured to a luxury hotel in Kilimani, Nairobi, where they met a sophisticated network of accomplices.

Some of these individuals allegedly posed as Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Customs officers, Ministry of Mining officials, and even licensed private jet operators.

“Before realizing they were being conned, the scammers had already defrauded them of USD 54,300 (about KSh7 million),” police confirmed.

Following their arrest, Emmaculate Odhiambo and Benson Odero Gember were arraigned in court on Thursday for plea taking, where they pleaded not guilty.

The court adjourned the matter to August 18, 2025, for a ruling on their bond terms.

The DCI has urged members of the public and international investors to remain cautious when engaging in gold trade deals in Kenya.