The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has obtained orders to detain four individuals linked to a Sh40 million fake recruitment scam that targeted unemployed teachers and other job seekers.

The four suspects, David Kemei, Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Director in Konoin Sub-County; Rosebella Chepkemoi Korir, a former Bomet County Woman Representative aspirant; and two teachers, Leonard Siele Towett and Mercy Cherotich, were arraigned on Friday before the Bomet Law Courts.

The detectives obtained 14-day custodial orders to allow for comprehensive investigations.

The four are accused of running a large-scale fraud network, promising permanent and pensionable employment with the TSC in exchange for hefty payments.

“Detectives attached to the TSC have arrested four suspects in Bomet County, over a large-scale fraud scheme involving fake TSC recruitment letters that duped job seekers of more than Sh40 million,” said the DCI.

Authorities say the fraud network extends beyond Bomet County, with operations believed to cover Kericho, Narok, Kisii, and Nyamira counties. Efforts are ongoing to trace and arrest additional individuals linked to the syndicate.

“Many victims reportedly took loans, sold property, or exhausted their savings in pursuit of the promised jobs,” said a statement by the DCI.

The DCI, in collaboration with the TSC, has reiterated its commitment to dismantling criminal networks that exploit job seekers and undermine public confidence in government institutions.

The commission has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and verify all recruitment opportunities through official TSC channels, warning that the commission does not charge any fees for employment.

“The DCI cautions the public to remain vigilant and to verify all recruitment opportunities through official TSC channels. TSC does not charge any fees for employment,” the authorities said.

Victims who may have fallen prey to the scam and have not yet reported it are urged to report to the DCI through the toll-free line #FichuaKwaDCI on 0800 722 203, via WhatsApp at 0709 570 000, or at the nearest police station.