Detectives from the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) domiciled at Nyali Sub-County have arrested a conman who’s been pulling the wool over the eyes of unsuspecting travellers in search of online Airbnb bookings in Mombasa.

The arrest comes as a breath of fresh air for many who have been taken for a ride by this clever trickster.

In one incident, on December 1, 2025, a resident of Nairobi set his sights on booking a beachside escape with his family.

While scrolling through listings online, he came across a tantalising property dubbed “Brima Mangu Apartment 2B” purporting to be in Mombasa.

The photos showcased a stunning apartment.

After striking up a conversation with the alleged owner, a chap named Brian Masika, they agreed on a deal of Ksh6000 per night.

Masika whetted his appetite with beautiful pictures and supplied a pay bill number that seemed harmless.

Hooked by the charming visuals and smooth talk, the holiday planner sent Ksh24000 for four nights, blissfully unaware he was walking straight into a lion’s den.

Upon arriving in Mombasa on December 4, 2025, he quickly found himself in a pickle: all attempts to contact Brian Masika fell flat, leaving him high and dry without a roof over his head.

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DCI Begins Search

Taking up the matter, detectives jumped into action, launching a manhunt for Masika. Thanks to forensic leads, they flushed him out of his hideout, subsequently arresting him.

Masika is now in custody, undergoing processing pending arraignment.

Also Read: Police Arrest Two Women Issuing Fake NPS Letters, Recover Ksh 330,000

DCI has urged Kenyans to be careful while booking accommodations during the festive season, warning that some of the online businesses are run by fraudsters.

“During this festive season, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations strongly advises the public to exercise caution when booking accommodations online. Remember, not every enticing offer is legitimate. Stay vigilant to avoid falling prey to scams,” DCI said.

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Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja
PHOTO/NPS