The two were arrested in Murang’a town on Friday after they were trailed from Kangema market, where they had conned a businesswoman with a promise that they would double her money before they disappeared with the loot.
The women asked the victim to kneel down for prayer but disappeared with her Sh5,900 as soon as she closed her eyes, prompting her to report the matter at the local police station. A quick search on the suspects by the police after their arrest produced the victim’s identification card and other personal effects in one of the suspect’s handbag.
Withdrew Sh100,000
In the past two week, the Kenya Tea Development Agency Limited (KTDA) has released billions of shillings in second payment (bonus) to tea farmers.
Police say thugs masquerading as preachers as well as twilight girls have invaded the tea growing areas with intentions of making a quick kill.
On Thursday many farmers reportedly received annual bonus.
On Sunday, Murang’a North OCPD Chris Mshimba confirmed the arrest.
Mr Mshimba said the suspects hoodwink their prey of having ‘divine’ powers to multiply any amount that will be offered for prayers. He said the suspects were arrested in Murang’a after the complainant positively identified them. “They have perfected ways of swindling the public,” said Mshimba.
The police called on members of the public to give any helpful information. A month ago a businesswoman was lured to a financial institution in Murang’a town and withdrew Sh100,000, which she offered to the fake preachers for doubling.
They then engrossed her in deep prayers but the preachers took off with her money leaving behind pieces of paper wrapped in a handkerchief.
