Seven Arrested in $470,000 Ambulance Scam Linked to Office of the President

Seven people in Nairobi have been charged for allegedly defrauding a Swedish businessman of over KSh60 million in a fake government ambulance supply deal. The scheme involved promises to deliver 500 high-roof diesel Toyota Hiace ambulances and was reportedly coordinated from the Office of the President.

According to court documents, the suspects convinced Talal Yousef Yousef Zaitoun that they could secure him a lucrative government contract. Prosecutors said the businessman “was misled into believing the deal had the backing of senior government offices.” The alleged offences took place between January 10 and February 25, 2026. Investigators say meetings were held at Harambee House and inside the Office of the President, where the suspects claimed they could guarantee the contract.

The accused denied multiple charges, including conspiracy to defraud, obtaining money by false pretences, acquisition of proceeds of crime, and forgery. “This was a well-coordinated scheme,” a prosecution source said. Authorities say the complainant transferred $470,750 (around KSh60.8 million) before realizing it was a fraud. Investigators are now tracing the funds through financial records and communications.

Legal experts say scams involving claims of links to the President of Kenya or senior government offices are especially sophisticated, as they exploit trust and authority. If convicted, the suspects could face long jail terms and heavy fines.

The case has drawn public attention for the alleged ties to the Office of the President and the high value involved. Authorities have urged businesses to verify any contract claiming government endorsement before committing funds.